11104 S. Natoma Ave.

Worth, IL 60482

(708) 448-0333

Why Should My Child Be Screened for Orthodontic Issues Early?

Why Should My Child Be Screened for Orthodontic Issues Early?

While it's never too late to get orthodontic treatment, childhood is often the best time to correct bite and alignment issues as the jawbones Siblings-Braceshaven't been fully set yet, making the teeth easier to shift. Here at All Smiles in Worth, IL, we are proud to serve the citizens of Palos Heights, Palos Park, Oak Lawn, and Chicago Ridge, IL, including any children that could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Read on to learn if your child should come into our office for an early orthodontic screening.

 

What Orthodontic Treatment From our Worth Office Can Do For Your Child

Like any dental or health issue, the earlier your child is treated for orthodontic problems, the better. After all, the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) suggests screening children for orthodontic problems at either the age of six or seven, as this is generally when permanent teeth are starting to erupt. During this stage, the most common bite and alignment issues start to develop, some of which include:

  • Crowding
  • Overbite
  • Crossbite
  • Underbite
  • Open bite

While you may not be able to entirely prevent or control whether your child will need braces, there are a few things that dentists recommend you try to avoid to prevent changes in the jaw that might require correction later:

  • Thumb sucking
  • Pacifier use after the age of three
  • Bottle feeding for too long

Birth defects like a cleft palate or trauma may also affect your child's jaw alignment, further necessitating orthodontic correction.

 

Concerned about Your Child's Oral Health? Give Us a Call

Childhood is the best time to instill a lifetime's worth of good oral hygiene and health habits. For more information about orthodontic treatment and screening, contact All Smiles today by calling (708) 448-0333 to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists. We are proud to serve the residents of Worth, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Oak Lawn, and Chicago Ridge, IL!