What Age Should My Child Start Orthodontics?

If you had braces as a teenager, you may have felt like your journey to a straight smile was seemingly never-ending! Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have made orthodontic treatment faster and more comfortable than ever before. However, wearing an orthodontic appliance day in and day out is still a big change and responsibility for a young person. As a parent, we understand that you want to help your child get the most benefit out of their orthodontic treatment. Part of this involves starting treatment at the right time.

Your Child's First Orthodontic Visit

At Summit Family Orthodontics, we invite patients as young as seven years old to come into our office for an orthodontic evaluation. This visit could end up being only an assessment and a discussion of whether or not orthodontic treatment is in your child’s future, or it could result in prompt treatment for a developing orthodontic issue. So if you’re questioning when your child should start orthodontic care, please contact Summit Family Orthodontics so our team can help determine the right timing!

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment will allow your child to achieve a beautifully straight smile, which will benefit their overall wellbeing. Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean and will boost your child's confidence. Early orthodontic treatment can help address a prolonged tongue thrust, a small palate, early loss of a baby tooth, etc. and prevent issues from becoming more serious as your child develops. This can improve your child's facial symmetry, preserve space for their underlying permanent teeth, and make their future orthodontic treatment more efficient.

Types of Orthodontic Treatment

Depending on your child's age and severity of misalignment, they may benefit from a space maintainer, palate expander, metal braces, ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and/or clear aligners. Additionally, a retainer is recommended after treatment to keep the teeth in their straightened positions.

Orthodontics in Littleton, CO

To know if your child is ready for orthodontic treatment, please contact Summit Family Orthodontics! We would be delighted to schedule their consultation at our office.

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