Help prevent complex problems later with an early orthodontic screening

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Certain orthodontic problems, if not treated early, can create an unhealthy environment for the growth and development of a child's teeth, gums, jaws , and face. In certain cases, it can even help prevent the need for jaw surgery later in life!

For this reason, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing an orthodontist at age 7. At that time, enough adult teeth are in that Dr. Kirk can complete a thorough examination of your child's bite to look for potential issues that only a professional can detect. 

If you have any concerns, it's best for us to see your child for an easy consultation visit. We'll let you know what you might expect for the future if there is no need to start now.

Common Conditions that May Require Intervention

How will you know if your child needs early orthodontic care?

It's not always easy to know if your child needs early treatment. Each patient has unique problems and what's right for one child may not be right for another. The need for early treatment for your child can only be determined after a complete study of your child's mouth by a professional, along with examination of diagnostic records.

A few things that may be identified at home are:

  • Early/late loss of baby teeth

  • Difficulty chewing or biting food

  • Mouth breathing

  • Finger or thumb sucking

  • Crowding, misplaced, blocked teeth

  • Teeth that do not come together normally

  • Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the face

 

With an early orthodontic evaluation, you'll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile 

Advantages of Early Treatment

When early treatment is indicated, benefits can include:

  • Prevention of blocked out teeth

  • Guiding permanent teeth to more favourable positions

  • Reducing the need for extraction of teeth

  • Reducing asymmetric growth of the face and jaw bones

  • Prevention of teeth becoming stuck in the bone of the palate

  • Prevention of teeth come in through overly thin gum tissue

  • Prevention of the need for jaw surgery

  • Lowering the risk of trauma to protruding teeth

  • Correction of harmful habits

  • Psychosocial / self-esteem benefits