Attention West Hempstead Residents: Ensuring Your Child’s Healthy Smile with Early Orthodontic Evaluation
As parents, ensuring the health and well-being of our children is always a top priority. One aspect of health that often goes overlooked until later years is orthodontic care. However, at Platinum Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that early orthodontic evaluation is crucial for your child’s long-term dental health.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
Many people think of braces and orthodontic treatment as something for teenagers. However, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. Early evaluation can help identify and address potential issues, making treatment more efficient and effective.
Common Issues Identified Early
- Crowding: Lack of space for permanent teeth to come in correctly.
- Malocclusion: Misalignment of the jaws, which can affect chewing and speech.
- Crossbites: When upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, potentially leading to jaw growth issues.
- Underbites and Overbites: Improper alignment of the upper and lower teeth.
Benefits of Early Intervention
- Guided Growth: Interceptive treatments can guide jaw growth, ensuring proper alignment.
- Reduce Need for Future Treatment: Addressing issues early can minimize the complexity and duration of future treatments.
- Prevent Damage: Correcting bite issues early can prevent undue wear on teeth and reduce the risk of injury.
What to Expect During an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
During an evaluation, our experienced orthodontists will examine your child’s teeth, mouth, and jaw. We may take X-rays to see the positioning of permanent teeth that haven’t erupted yet. Based on our findings, we will discuss any recommended treatments, which could range from simple monitoring to more proactive measures like braces or expanders.
Q & A Summary
Q: At what age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?
A: The AAO recommends a first check-up by age 7.
Q: What are the signs that my child might need orthodontic care?
A: Crowded teeth, early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, and misaligned jaws are common signs.
Q: Can early orthodontic treatment reduce the need for braces later?
A: Yes, early treatment can address issues before they become more severe, potentially reducing or simplifying future treatments.
Q: Is orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?
A: Coverage varies by insurance plan. It’s best to check with your provider and our office for detailed information.
For more information on early orthodontic evaluation and pediatric dental care, visit these trusted resources:
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
Schedule an appointment with Platinum Pediatric Dentistry today to ensure your child’s smile is on the right track!
8/7/24
Dr. Dan Bamshad