The Reasons Why Orthodontic Consultations Are Recommended at a Young Age

If you want your child to have a straight and healthy smile, then it’s important to bring your child to Bradshaw & Hathaway for an orthodontic consultation at an early age. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it’s best to bring them in for their first appointment by the time they are 7 years old. This gives our orthodontist, Dr. Daniel Bradshaw, the opportunity to examine your child’s smile and determine if they will need orthodontic treatment in the future. It will also allow him to provide any number of treatments to help your child grow into a straight and healthy smile without an orthodontic appliance like braces.

Your child won’t typically need to begin their orthodontic journey when they are 7 years old. It’s actually better to begin around ages 12-14. This is because around 12 years old the permanent teeth have grown into place and the smile is almost fully developed. This is also a good time because the jaw and teeth are still susceptible to pressure and change, meaning the orthodontic treatment can be easier at this age than at an older age.

If your child needs it, they can align their teeth with one of many orthodontic treatment choices. Some choices include metal braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, and more. The treatment should last about 12-18 months, depending on how severe the misalignment is. By the time the treatment is over, your child should have a straight and beautiful smile.

Do you have questions about orthodontic treatment in Johnson City, Tennessee? If so, please call Bradshaw & Hathaway at 423-929-1126 today. We look forward to helping you!