At what age should a child have an orthodontic exam?

At what age should a child have an orthodontic exam?
Posted on 03/11/2024

Dr. Olson an Orthodontist at Litchfield Park is one of the top orthodontists in the greater Phoenix area. We provide exceptional orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults. Our goal is to help your family members achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Olson, our family orthodontist, designs comprehensive treatment plans for each patient based on individual needs. We use the latest orthodontic techniques and technology to provide the most effective, comfortable treatment without invasive methods.

Dr. Olson an Orthodontist at Litchfield Park provides Early Orthodontic Treatment

We use the latest techniques and technologies in treating young orthodontic patients. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that parents schedule their child's first orthodontic treatment before they turn seven. Contact us to schedule your child's evaluation. At your child's first visit, Dr. Olson, our family orthodontist, examines your child's mouth to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary and when treatment should begin.

Why Is Early Evaluation Essential?

Dr. Olson, an Orthodontist at Litchfield Park recommends an early evaluation for children to catch potential problems. A child's baby teeth determine how the permanent teeth will come in. At seven, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. At this age, the upper and lower permanent front teeth, or incisors, usually begin to emerge into the mouth as the front baby teeth are lost.  Our family orthodontist can determine if there's any misalignment or if your child's jaw isn't developing correctly.

What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early childhood orthodontic treatment makes room for adult teeth that are erupting. Orthodontic treatment helps to guide the adult teeth into position and make space for teeth that haven't erupted. Kids are most commonly fitted for braces between the ages of 10 and 14. However, Dr. Olson may recommend earlier treatment if your child has an abnormal bite which may cause damage to teeth or affect growth, or if there is insufficient space for a permanent tooth to grow. Your child's orthodontic treatment is essential when there are overbite or underbite problems.

When the teeth are misaligned, the alignment of the smile is affected. Bite problems can affect your child's speech, make it more challenging to keep their teeth clean, and lead to problems including gum disease and tooth decay. Another problem is your child's self-esteem when their teeth are crooked or they have speech problems.

We Implement Cutting-Edge Technology to Straighten Teeth

Our family orthodontist uses the Damon braces system to straighten teeth. Traditional braces are improved to make them more comfortable and smaller. Another advantage of Damon is the system often works faster than traditional metal braces, and you have fewer orthodontic visits. Damon braces work in a similar way traditional braces do by applying pressure to the teeth that aren't in alignment. The constant pressure on the teeth means less discomfort. Elastic ties around each individual brace aren't needed with the Damon system since a door in the bracket holds the wire in place, so there are fewer adjustments and often less pressure. One of the best features of the Damon system is that it's suitable for patients of all ages.

To schedule an evaluation for your child contact our family orthodontist. You may fill in the form on our website or call us at 623-536-7004. We look forward to meeting you.


Olson Orthodontics

  • Litchfield Park Office - 13575 W. Indian School Rd., Suite 400, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 Phone: 623-536-7004
  • Verrado/Buckeye Office - 4252 N. Verrado Way, Suite 105, Buckeye, AZ 85396 Phone: (623) 536-7004

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