As your child’s adult teeth start to come in, you might notice irregularities with their bite or teeth spacing. An orthodontist will eventually be able to correct these issues, but when is the right time to start treatment? This guide breaks down a basic timeline. 

When Should Your Child Begin Orthodontic Treatment?  

When Should a Child Have Their First Orthodontic Appointment?

Most dental professionals recommend that your child see an orthodontist by the time they are seven years old. At this age, they are first developing their adult teeth and problems might begin to show.  

What Types of Bite Problems Might Young Children Experience?

Soon-to-be preteens may develop an overbite, in which their upper front teeth jut out over their lower teeth, or an underbite, where the opposite occurs. Open bites are less heard of, but mean that the child’s front upper and lower teeth do not make contact at all. Additionally, their teeth may have gaps or be crooked and overlap. Fortunately, all of these issues can be corrected with treatment. 

When Will Orthodontists Start Treatment?

Your child’s specific treatment timeline will depend on several factors. The specialist will consider how many adult teeth your child has and which baby teeth they still need to lose. If they want to start treatment despite the presence of baby teeth, they may recommend seeing a dentist for an extraction. They will also consider the severity of your child’s orthodontic issues. For mild problems, there may be time to wait before your child needs braces. However, the orthodontist may choose to start correcting bite issues while your child is still growing. 

Every child’s teeth are different, so you need an orthodontist you can trust. The team at Littlefield Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics has been serving families in Littlefield, TX, smile brighter for over 12 years. These professionals help both children and adults maintain oral health, providing services like implants, routine cleanings, and tooth extractions. To view a full list of their services, visit them online. You can also call (808) 385-6935 to schedule an appointment today.