Why Your Child Should See an Orthodontist

You've made the first step. Your child is receiving Biomimetic Dentistry Care from a general dentist in New York to prevent tooth problems later in life. But you aren't finished yet! It may seem premature, but most dentists and oral surgeons recommend that you schedule your child's first orthodontist appointment before the age of seven. Why?

By the age of seven, teeth have developed enough that an orthodontist can evaluate facial symmetry and bite. Jaw alignment issues may be present even if your child's smile appears straight. Only an orthodontist has the expertise to detect and diagnose subtle problems with bite and alignment. Early interventions correct these problems and can prevent your child's having to undergo extensive treatments. It may also shave years of treatment time, so your child can have his or her braces removed sooner!

Your child's teeth are developing quickly at the age of seven, and time is running out for preventative Biomimetic Dentistry Care or preventative interventions. Once your child's jaw stops growing, treatments become corrective and complicated. If problems are caught before the teeth and jaw are finished developing, your child may be able to avoid braces altogether.

At the age of seven, your child's mind is still malleable and destructive habits that affect bite development and jaw alignment are not set in stone. An orthodontist can detect whether thumb sucking, nail biting and tooth grinding are affecting your child's facial and oral development. These habits are easier to address when your child is young. The longer these habits are allowed to go on, the more difficult it will be for you to address them with your child.

Seeing an orthodontist before the age of seven may also empower your child to take better care of his or her teeth in the future. While regular visits to your general dentist in New York prevent tooth decay, misaligned teeth can trap bacteria in spots that are hard for your child to reach with regular flossing and brushing at home. If the teeth are not straight and properly spaced, it can be difficult to floss fully and comfortably or to effectively remove plaque and food particles with brushing.

Finally, early visits to the orthodontist give your child the best chance of having a beautiful, straight smile. A straight smile not only improves your child's self esteem through adolescence, but also makes it easier to eat and chew. Having a dentist guide jaw development and alignment and educate on destructive habits helps your child achieve a smile he or she can be proud of for years to come. Biomimetic dentistry and early orthodontist appointments are the key to providing your child with a beautiful smile safely and easily.