Check in with us every week! We will be writing about different topics in orthodontics and in dentistry. Dentistry is a field that is constantly evolving and improving so there will always be new and exciting information to learn.
Have you ever wondered when your child should see an orthodontist? What is the advantage of starting orthodontics treatment early?
Developing malocclusions or bad bites can be recognized as early as 2-3 years. If these problems are caught early on, it can reduce the need for major orthodontic treatment at a later age. The different stages of development and treatment can be classified into three stages:
Stage I- Early Treatment: This period of treatment occurs between the ages of 2 to 6 years. During this stage, the main concern is with underdeveloped dental arches, the premature loss of primary teeth, and bad habits such as finger and thumb sucking. Treatment during this stage is often very successful and many times can eliminate the need for future orthodontic and orthopedic treatment.
Stage II- Mixed Dentition: This period occurs between the ages of 6 to 12 years with the eruption of permanent incisors (front teeth) and six year molars. Treatment concerns deal with jaw malrelationships and dental realignment problems. This is a good time to begin treatment since your child’s hard and soft tissues are usually very responsive to orthodontic or orthopedic forces.
Stage III- Adolescent Dentition: This stage deals with the permanent teeth and the development of the final bite relationship.
At Portland Pearl Orthodontics, we can help you make informed decisions about your child’s first stage of orthodontic care.
