Children and Preteens
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child first visit an orthodontist for a checkup no later than age 7. Although orthodontic problems are often associated with adolescence, an examination is important to ensure maximum dental health for the child. Dr. Catherine Oden Fulton examines young patients for skeletal problems that can lead to serious dental issues down the road. If such problems are detected, Dr. Fulton can design an interceptive treatment plan to guide and enhance the child's natural growth in order to promote the development of proper upper and lower jaw size and to position the jaws in proper relationship to each other. Early treatment in the mixed dentition (some deciduous/baby teeth remain) is often referred to as Phase One of a child’s orthodontic treatment. This phase is followed by Phase Two after all of the permanent teeth that are needed to complete treatment have erupted. Every parent wants his or her child to have a beautiful smile. And every child should have a healthy smile with properly functioning teeth. Left untreated, malocclusions can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, loss of teeth, mouth breathing and jaw joint problems. For more information about child orthodontics, take a look at these pamphlets published by the AAO. |
