What Is the Best Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment? 

Every parent naturally wants their child to have a beautiful smile. You may have been taking care of their oral health, but they still get crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth, ensuring they are comfortable and have a great smile. 

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a way of moving and straightening teeth to improve their appearance. It improves your bite and helps close gaps between teeth. The treatment is available for people of all ages.

It usually lasts for a year or two, depending on the severity of your malocclusion. You may also need to visit the dentist every four to ten weeks for adjustments. The adjustments vary with the method and severity of your malocclusion.

What Is the Best Age?

You can receive orthodontic treatment at any age. However, the best time is at seven years. At this age, the permanent teeth have begun growing. So if a child needs treatment, they can start treatment early. It improves the outcome of the treatment. But sometimes, the dentist may opt to start treatment later.

What Are the Exceptions?

Sometimes, the permanent teeth may come in later. It varies from person to person. Hence, the dentist may wait until the child gets permanent teeth. Most of the time, this happens between ages nine and fourteen. Your dentist will advise you on the best time to start your child on braces.

Other Exceptions

Sometimes, the issue is not with the permanent teeth but factors that may contribute to the delay. So the best age to start orthodontic treatment may also vary.

Lack of Funds

Children may have to wait until later if their parents lack funding to cover the expenses of orthodontic treatment. Some insurance companies may cover the cost. However, be careful how you use the money since it may have a limit. 

To be prudent about funding, you may have to choose the type of braces. Ask your pediatric dentist to give you the cost estimate. When you can put the funds together for treatment, get it as soon as possible.

Lack of Diagnosis

Sometimes, the problem may be a delay in diagnosis. However, this should not be a great hindrance by itself. So take your child to an orthodontist as soon as you realize a malocclusion. Avoid putting off treatment until they are older.

Inconvenience

Sometimes, the issue may be that there is an inconvenience. It may be that you are transiting from one area to another. Whatever the inconvenience, pursue treatment as soon as you can schedule an appointment. 

You can also note that you do not need a referral from a dentist to make an appointment with an orthodontist. So if you are moving from one area to another, it is okay. However, ensure that your child’s medical records are in order. It makes work easier.

Remember that, as your child ages, their jaw continues to grow. It can cause more problems since it does not resolve itself.

For more information on orthodontic treatment, visit Ofir Orthodontics at our Downey, California office. Call (562) 396-9820 to book an appointment today.