Early Orthodontic Treatment in West Miami Means Less Care Later

The American Association of Orthodontics suggests that orthodontic problems become apparent by the time a child is only 6 or 7 years of age.  Bones are still growing and it’s an ideal time to determine which treatment may be needed for your child in order to correct misaligned teeth before they because a problem for your child. With early orthodontic treatment, many dental problems can be avoided.

Early orthodontic treatment in West Miami, also referred to as interceptive orthodontics, may begin as early as age 6 or 7. At this age, teeth are still developing and the jaw is still growing.  Certain conditions, such as crowding, or bite issues are often easier to address at a younger age, and it may be possible to help teeth to erupt into better positions.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

One cause for concern in younger orthodontic patients can be the dental arch – which may be too small to fit all the teeth.  Decades ago, the solution was to extract teeth to make space.  Early intervention takes advantage of the fact that a child’s jaw is still growing. Now, there is a palatal expander that can be used to expand a child’s upper dental arch.  Once the arch is the proper size, the adult teeth have more room to emerge into a better position.  Sometimes teeth may still have to be extracted to ensure proper alignment, but more often than not, dental arch appliances are the best option.

Early orthodontic treatment in West Miami can correct dental arch spacing and teeth that are not in the correct position. A thorough dental assessment by an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Maria Yazji can help discover dental problems when a child is still young. Early orthodontic treatment provides the best chance of proper alignment allowing the child to have normal chewing motion, straight teeth, and a beautiful smile.

Early treatment does not apply to all orthodontic problems but it can help in certain cases. Crossbites and protruding front teeth require early intervention because a crossbite can cause the jaw to grow unevenly leading to jaw pain, an improper bite, or teeth that protrude improperly. Front teeth that stick out can easily be fractured or injured in a fall and are sometimes a cause of embarrassment for the child who may feel self-conscious about their smile.

Early intervention takes advantage of the fact that a child’s jaw is still quite pliable.  Early orthodontic treatment in West Miami can correct problems with dental arches, jaws that are not in the correct position, and bite concerns. Functional appliances can quickly fix or improve these problems which is why it is often recommended to begin orthodontic treatment by 7 years old or younger.

Braces have improved a lot in the past couple of decades. Technology has made them more comfortable and more attractive than they used to be. Getting started early can prevent many orthodontic issues later on.

With three convenient locations in South Florida,  Dr. Yazji Orthodontics is a warm and welcoming place to bring your young children for their first orthodontic exam and assessment.  Give us a call!

Dr. Yazji Orthodontics

Brickell

500 Brickell Avenue, Suite M-204

Miami, Florida 33131

Phone: (786) 220-7802

Dr. Yazji Orthodontics

Miami

3811 SW 107th Avenue

Miami, Florida 33165

Phone: (786) 558-5688

Dr. Yazji Orthodontics

Weston

2751 Executive Park Drive #101

Weston, FL 33331

Phone: (954) 217-3737