Orthodontic Evaluation
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early detection can simplify treatment and improve outcomes.
About This Service
Early orthodontic evaluation is an important part of your child's overall dental care. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have emerged to identify potential problems with jaw growth and tooth alignment.
At Teddy Bear Dental Care, we perform thorough orthodontic evaluations as part of our comprehensive pediatric dental services. Dr. Dorfman monitors your child's dental development at every visit, watching for signs that orthodontic intervention may be beneficial.
Early detection doesn't always mean early treatment. Many children who are evaluated at age 7 don't need treatment until all their permanent teeth have emerged. However, identifying issues early allows us to monitor development and plan appropriately. Some problems are easier to correct in younger children because their bones are still growing.
Issues we watch for include crowding, spacing, crossbites, overbites, underbites, and habits like thumb-sucking that can affect tooth alignment. In some cases, early intervention (called Phase 1 treatment) can guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, or address harmful habits.
When comprehensive orthodontic treatment is needed, we work closely with trusted orthodontists in our community. We'll provide a referral and coordinate care to ensure the best outcome for your child's smile.
What to Expect
Clinical Exam
Visual examination of teeth, bite, and jaw alignment
X-rays
Panoramic x-ray to see developing teeth and jaw structure
Analysis
Assessment of current development and prediction of future needs
Discussion
Review findings with parents and answer all questions
Plan
Create monitoring or treatment plan as appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should my child be evaluated at age 7?
By age 7, enough permanent teeth have emerged to identify problems with jaw growth and tooth position. Early detection allows for monitoring and, when needed, timely intervention that can simplify later treatment.
Does early evaluation mean early braces?
Not necessarily. Many children evaluated early don't need treatment until their teens. Early evaluation helps us monitor development and plan appropriately, intervening only when there's a clear benefit.
What problems might require early treatment?
Severe crowding, crossbites affecting jaw growth, significant overbites or underbites, and habits like thumb-sucking that are affecting tooth position may benefit from early intervention.
Do you provide braces at Teddy Bear Dental Care?
We focus on pediatric dentistry and monitoring orthodontic development. When comprehensive orthodontic treatment is needed, we refer to trusted specialists and coordinate care for the best outcomes.
Benefits
- Early detection of orthodontic issues
- Monitor jaw growth and development
- Identify crowding, spacing, and bite problems
- Guide growth to avoid complex treatment later
- Address harmful habits like thumb-sucking
- Create space for permanent teeth if needed
Quick Info
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