Children’s Orthodontics
Is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Necessary?
Parents are usually relieved to learn that early orthodontics is not about getting braces. It’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of optimal oral health, which is affected by the proper alignment and symmetry of their smile, jaw, and face. Your child’s early evaluation with our pediatric orthodontist in Lombard, IL, is not simply for aesthetics but will help guide the growth and development of their jaw and teeth – preventing more serious problems later.
When Should My Child See a Pediatric Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation occur by age seven. This is the time when adult teeth are erupting. At Downers Grove Orthodontics, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect early issues. Some issues include overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. We can tell if your child will benefit from early treatment, as many potential problems may not be visibly apparent until it is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.
Signs That Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment
Treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with Dr. Balakrishnan if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting food
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Mouth breathing
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
- Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
- Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face
What Is the Benefit of Early Treatment?
While parents don’t need to rush into obtaining braces for their young children, some oral health issues can be avoided with early screening and treatment, including:
- Open bites – when the upper and lower teeth are unable to physically touch each other when the jaws are closed
- Crossbites – when the two rows of teeth don’t meet correctly. A misaligned bite can cause tooth decay, gum disease, stress on the jaw muscles, headaches, and more.
- Speech impediments
- Injury to protruding teeth
Adolescent Orthodontic Options
Should you choose to forego an early evaluation for your child, we recommend bringing your child in for a consultation once all of their adult teeth have erupted, around age 12.
Our Process
When your child comes in for their complimentary appointment, Dr. Balakrishnan will perform a thorough evaluation of their smile and bite. This will allow her to determine which type of treatment will be best suited to their needs. She will also take the time to educate you and your child on what to expect from the treatment, plus answer any questions you may have prior to beginning treatment.
Schedule an Appointment With Our Pediatric Orthodontist in Lombard, IL, Today
To experience our award-winning orthodontic care, schedule your Free Downers Grove Smile Assessment today by calling (630) 515-2727. You may also click here for our convenient online form. Your appointment includes the following:
- Digital X-Rays
- Complete Examination
- Discuss Your Goals
- Custom Treatment Plan Tailored to Your Budget
- BONUS - Free Copy of Dr. Balakrishnan’s Book, Grin And Wear It: The In-Depth Guide to Your Child’s Orthodontic Care
During your appointment, we will take the time to answer all your questions about our advanced treatments and technology, our flexible payment options, and anything else you may want to know about us!
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