Early Orthodontic Treatment in Oklahoma City & Kingfisher, OK

Early orthodontic treatment refers to the practice of correcting orthodontic issues in children at a young age. This type of treatment is important because it can help prevent future, more serious dental problems from developing. It typically involves using braces or other orthodontic appliances to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. 
 
One common reason for early orthodontic treatment is overcrowding. If a child's mouth has limited space, their adult teeth may not have enough room to grow properly. This can lead to crooked teeth or even tooth decay and gum disease. Early intervention with orthodontic treatment can help create enough room for permanent teeth to grow correctly. 
 
Another reason for early orthodontic treatment is an uneven bite. A bad bite can cause speech impediments, difficult chewing, jaw pain, and headaches. Early correction of these issues prevents them from worsening over time. 
 
Early orthodontic treatment allows for quicker and more effective results than waiting until adulthood when bones are fully developed. It also helps avoid potential complications down the road by addressing orthodontic problems before they become more severe. 

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

There are many compelling reasons why parents should consider pursuing early orthodontic treatments for their children's upcoming orthodontic care needs. Early orthodontic treatment can bring a multitude of benefits to children and their dental health. One of the most significant advantages is that it can help prevent more severe oral issues from developing in the future. Early treatment can correct crowded or crooked teeth, bite problems, and jaw misalignment before they worsen over time. 
 
Another benefit of early orthodontic treatment is improved self-esteem and confidence for young patients. Children who undergo early orthodontic treatment often feel more comfortable with their appearance afterward, leading to increased social interactions and better mental health outcomes. 
 
In addition to cosmetic improvements, early intervention can also improve overall oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease down the line. Also, properly aligned jaws make eating and speaking easier for children as they grow up. 

Treating orthodontic issues at an earlier age may be less costly than waiting until adulthood, when those same conditions become more complex to resolve. By addressing any concerns during childhood or adolescence through timely interventions such as braces or other appliances, parents may save money on more extensive procedures later on.

When Is the Best Time for Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment has numerous benefits and can greatly improve oral health and overall quality of life for children. It is, however, important to note that not all children need early orthodontic treatment, but those who need it should receive it as soon as possible.

So when is the best time for early orthodontic treatment? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows an orthodontist to identify any potential issues with bite, alignment, or overcrowding before they become more severe.

However, even if a child does not require immediate intervention at age 7, regular checkups with an orthodontist can monitor their dental development over time and ensure any necessary treatments are implemented in a timely manner. 
 
In conclusion, early orthodontic treatment can provide significant benefits for children's oral health and well-being. By addressing any potential issues at a young age, we can help our kids avoid more extensive procedures later on in life. So, if you have concerns about your child's teeth or jaw alignment, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with an experienced orthodontist today. 

Call HEIM ORTHODONTICS at (405) 755-8151 (Oklahoma City, OK) or (405) 375-5328 (Kingfisher, OK) to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist or to learn more about our orthodontic services.