Did you know the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7?
At this age, many permanent teeth have begun to erupt, allowing orthodontists to identify potential problems early and guide proper dental development.
What Orthodontists Look for at an Early Evaluation
An early orthodontic check allows us to assess how the teeth and jaws are developing. Some common concerns include:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Crossbites or underbites
- Jaw growth problems
- Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Protruding teeth that may be more prone to injury
Does Early Evaluation Mean Early Braces?
Not always. In many cases, early visits simply allow us to monitor growth and development over time. If treatment is needed, early orthodontics (also called Phase 1 treatment) can sometimes prevent more complex issues later.
Benefits of early orthodontic care may include:
- Creating space for permanent teeth
- Guiding jaw growth
- Reducing the need for tooth extractions
- Improving facial balance
- Shortening future treatment time