When your child is seen for their regular dental check-up, the dentist may suggest that it’s time for your little one to make an appointment to see an orthodontist. Many parents may think, “Well, what is the right age for my child to first see an orthodontist? Shouldn’t we wait until all their baby teeth fall out?”
Not all patients referred to an orthodontist for a consultation will need braces. Coming in for a free consultation will allow you to have all your questions answered and give you the necessary information to support your child’s dental development and daily oral hygiene habits.
Phase I Starts at Age 7
“Phase I Orthodontic Treatment” is performed on young patients with both baby and adult teeth to influence the growth patterns of their jaws and correct tooth position problems. This phase of treatment usually lasts between 6-18 months and is done during the 7 to 11-year-old age window of dental development. Not all patients will need Phase I treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by age 7 to assess potential problems in jaw growth or tooth eruption.
Although Phase I Treatment usually simplifies future orthodontic treatment, it does not eliminate the necessity for future orthodontics as your child’s teeth erupt and their jaws develop. Your child may need other braces (Phase II Orthodontic Treatment) to fully align teeth when they age.
Now that you better understand some of the basics, you can schedule your child’s free orthodontic consultation today by clicking here!
If you are a parent or patient and have suggestions on how we may better serve you, please do not hesitate to contact us here.
Smile Big!
Samantha Suarez
Orthodontic Manager
Tebo Orthodontics
