Many parents associate braces and orthodontics with their teen years but you may be surprised to learn that the best time for your little one to have their first orthodontic visit is around their 7th birthday. We know, we know - they’re still running around the jungle gym and definitely not exhibiting any tween behavior (at least we hope not for your sake!). That said, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends children be seen by an orthodontist at age seven and we at Convivial Dental absolutely agree.

Why by age seven?

By age 7, your child’s mouth has matured enough for a trained orthodontic eye to spot current and future issues. We can then make corrections that will help guide their jaw growth and teeth into a healthier place for an easier straight smile later on.

There are many benefits to starting orthodontic treatment earlier (Phase I treatment) as a child; these include overall shorter treatment time, fewer impacted permanent teeth, reduced chance of removing permanent teeth and need for jaw surgery in the future. That’s because with early orthodontics we can:

• Prevent or intercept serious problems from developing and may make future orthodontic treatment (Phase II) much shorter and less complicated
• Guide teeth into desired positions early
• Modify and guide jaw growth
• Minimize crowding/creating room for erupting teeth
• Correct the harmful results of oral habits like thumb and finger sucking
• Improve appearance
• Reduce risk of trauma to protruded front teeth

At Convivial Dental, we think of early orthodontics as a two phase solution – DUAL PHASE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT:

• Phase 1 works with your young child to make space for his or her permanent teeth, align the jaws and achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing
• Phase 2 begins once all of the permanent teeth have erupted (around 11-12Y)

If you recommend early orthodontics for my child, does that mean they won’t need braces as a teen?

Early treatment (phase 1) can begin the correction of significant problems, prevent additional problems from developing, and simplify future treatment, but oftentimes, additional treatment is still necessary. That said, children who have undergone early orthodontic treatment typically wear braces or Invisalign for a shorter period of time in the teen years than those who have not undergone early intervention. This makes life easier for both them, and you, as both of your schedules get busier and busier.

If I bring my child to you at age 7 are you definitely going to recommend early orthodontics?

Nope! Every child is different and we customize every treatment plan to the individual. Early treatment is not necessary for all children. Certain types of orthodontic problems can be more easily and efficiently corrected in the teen years when all permanent teeth have come in; some complex skeletal orthodontic problems should not be addressed until growth is more advanced or complete. Dr. Vicky Cartsos and her team will develop a customized treatment plan based on each individual child’s needs.

In order to create a custom treatment plan for your child, we need to see you! All you need to do is schedule a complimentary consultation with us. We can’t wait to meet you and your seven year old!

Call us today at 617-735-0800 or click below to schedule a free consultation - we can start virtually or in person - your choice!