EARLY ORTHODONTICS

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AT WHAT AGE SHOULD A CHILD FIRST VISIT THE ORTHODONTIST?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first

orthodontic check-up by age .At this age, children usually have a mix of baby teeth and permanent

teeth,  allowing the orthodontist to evaluate how the teeth, bite, and jaws are developing.

An early visit does not always mean treatment is needed right away. In many cases, the orthodontist

may simply monitor the child’s growth and development.

Early evaluation can help detect potential problems before they become more serious and guide

the best timing for future treatment.

 

WHY ARE CHILDREN BEING EVALUATED AT SUCH AN EARLY AGE?

Children are evaluated early because some orthodontic problems are easier to detect and

manage while the teeth and jaws are still growing. 

An early orthodontic check-up can help identify issues such as crowding, crossbite, overbite,

underbite, jaw growth problems, or habits like thumb sucking.

Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment. In many cases, the orthodontist will

simply monitor the child’s growth and recommend treatment only when the timing is right.

The goal is to guide healthy dental and jaw development and help prevent more serious problems

in the future.

Does early treatment benefit all children?

 

DOES EARLY TREATMENT BENEFIT ALL CHILDREN?

Early orthodontic treatment does not benefit every child. Many children only need regular monitoring

until the right time for treatment. Early treatment may be recommended when a child has specific

problems such as severe crowding, crossbite, underbite, jaw growth concerns, or harmful oral habits.

The purpose of an early evaluation is to determine whether treatment is needed now or whether it is

better to wait. Dr. Choe will carefully evaluate each child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development and

recommend the best timing for treatment.

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WHAT IS THE ORTHODONTIC SUPERVISORY PROGRAM?

The Orthodontic Supervisory Program is for children who are not ready to begin treatment right

away but still need to be monitored as they grow. During this program, Dr. Choe will periodically

check the development of the teeth, bite, and jaws to determine the best time to start orthodontic

treatment if needed.

Regular observation helps us detect changes early, guide proper dental development, and avoid

starting treatment too soon.

The goal is to begin treatment at the right time for the best and most efficient results.

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IN ADDITION TO A BEAUTIFUL NEW SMILE,

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER BENEFITS OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?

Orthodontic treatment can do more than improve the appearance of your smile.

Properly aligned teeth and jaws can also help improve chewing function, speech, oral hygiene,

and overall dental health. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which may reduce the risk of

cavities,plaque buildup, and gum problems.

A healthy bite can also help reduce uneven tooth wear and improve comfort when eating or speaking.

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IF A CHILD HAS TREATMENT EARLY, WILL THIS PREVENT THE NEED FOR

BRACES AS AN ADOLESCENT?

Early orthodontic treatment does not always prevent the need for braces later.

In many cases, early treatment helps guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth,

or correct bite problems at the right time. However, as the child grows and more permanent teeth

come in, a second phase of treatment may still be needed during the teenage years. 

The goal of early treatment is to make future treatment easier, shorter, and more effective when

possible. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to create a smile that is not only beautiful, but also healthy,

functional, and long-lasting.

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DO WE STILL NEED TO SEE OUR FAMILY DENTIST DURING ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?

Yes. It is very important to continue seeing your family dentist during orthodontic treatment.

Your orthodontist focuses on moving the teeth and correcting the bite, while your family dentist helps

maintain your overall oral health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help prevent cavities,

gum problems,and plaque buildup while wearing braces or clear aligners.

We recommend that patients continue routine dental visits as advised by their family dentist throughout

orthodontic treatment.