Most people associate orthodontic treatment with teenagers. However, as a practice, we actually recommend starting orthodontic treatment much earlier.
Early Treatment Equals Beautiful Smiles
Early orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive treatment, usually occurs between the ages of seven and nine. Its main purpose is to correct certain aspects of your child’s bite and smile before those issues can develop into more serious problems. In many cases, early orthodontic treatment can eliminate the need for more intensive orthodontic treatment later on, helping to save you time and money in the future.
The Right Time to Begin
Keeping with the best practices of the American Association of Orthodontists, our orthodontist suggests that parents bring their children to our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, or Eldridge office for an initial evaluation by the age of seven. It is not certain whether we will start treatment like braces at this time. The main reason for coming in by this age is that the back bite has developed. As a result, your orthodontist can spot current problems, and areas that could potentially progress into problems down the line.
Overall, evaluating early lets your orthodontist monitor the growth and development of your child’s smile, which allows us to choose the perfect time to begin treatment later on.
Start Smiling Today
Have more questions about early orthodontic treatment, or want to bring your child in for their first evaluation? Please contact us at either our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, or Eldridge, IA office. You can also fill out this easy online form and one of our staff members will get back to you right away. We can't wait to help your child begin a journey toward a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles!