Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontics is the process of aligning the teeth and jaw area for straight teeth, an aligned bite, and better overall oral health. Orthodontics like braces are most effective in children, as their mouth and jaw are still developing. Which raises the question, how young is too young to start orthodontic treatment? And what are the benefits of early orthodontics?

What Is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?

Children should undergo an orthodontic assessment between the ages of 7-11 years old, ideally when the two adult front teeth have fully emerged.

Malocclusion can develop at this stage of oral development - a 2019 study on the malocclusion problems in children aged 8-9 found that almost half (43%) of children needed moderate to severe orthodontic treatment.

Seeing a specialist orthodontist for paediatric treatment early on can help to identify and address misalignment sooner rather than later.

There are signs that parents can be on the lookout for to determine if and when early orthodontic treatment may be required. While not always an indication of misaligned teeth, these signs are linked to a higher risk of bite problems, crowding, or other orthodontic issues that may benefit from an early visit with an orthodontist.

• Crowded front teeth (noticeable around ages seven to eight)

• Losing baby teeth earlier than expected (before age five)

• Upper and lower teeth don’t come together when biting

• Protruding front teeth

• Continued thumb or finger sucking after age five

• Mouth breathing or frequent snoring

• Difficulty chewing or biting

• Delayed emergence of adult teeth

When to Consider Early Orthodontic Treatment for Your Child

Shorter Treatment Time

Early orthodontic treatment can result in a significantly reduced treatment duration. Between the ages of seven and 10 years, the teeth, jaw, and gums are still developing. Orthodontics during this developing stage can make treatments faster and more manageable.

Prevents More Severe Conditions

While minor misalignment issues may not seem urgent during childhood, dental issues can worsen as adult teeth come in. Complex and severe conditions will require more invasive and expensive orthodontic treatment later on. Early orthodontic treatment prevents smaller problems from becoming bigger problems.

Minimises the Need for Tooth Removal

Severe misalignment issues will require tooth removal to create space for improved alignment. Early orthodontic treatment allows orthodontists to guide adult tooth development during childhood with minimal complications, reducing the likelihood of future tooth extractions.

Proper Bite and Teeth Alignment

Early orthodontic treatment provides the foundation for a healthy bite profile and straighter smile as kids grow into teens and adults. Orthodontics will address crowding, overbites, or crossbites while the jaw is still developing. This helps to achieve a more appealing smile appearance and also supports proper chewing, speaking, and overall oral health.

Glow Orthodontics offers orthodontic treatments for children at our clinic in Burwood, Sydney. If you’re not sure if your child needs braces or you’re unsure about when to start an orthodontic treatment, book an appointment for an early orthodontic assessment with our team today.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment