So you’re considering orthodontic treatment for your child? In this blog, we’ll be going over everything from the suggested age range for orthodontic treatment to expectations. We’ll even cover the club we have for children here in Vaughan.
What age should my child get an initial consultation from an orthodontist?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontics and Dr. Walt recommend that children receive an initial evaluation from an orthodontist by the age of seven. By the age of seven, most children have begun to lose their primary teeth and their adult teeth are beginning to make their way in. This is when issues such as uneven bite or overcrowding can be identified.
Early intervention is very common at an early age to aid in alleviating issues as your child grows since their jaws are easier to manipulate when they are younger.
What orthodontic options are available for children?
1. Expanders
Palatal expanders are a common appliance in the orthodontic community. While a child is still young, the bones are still soft enough to allow the appliance to expand the palate. This creates space for erupting permanent teeth, fixing crossbites, and preventing jaw asymmetries.
2. Headgear
Headgear or facemask appliances can help avoid invasive surgeries later on in life. They also correct bone discrepancies in a growing child, with proper compliance. Some kids have genetic pre-dispositions to have either an excessive overbite or underbite. Another common one is that their lower jaw is either too small or too big. While they are still growing, appliances like the headgear and facemask can help promote growth within the upper or lower jaw.
3. Partial Braces or Invisalign First
In some cases, early intervention with partial braces or Invisalign is needed. This creates space or gives access and a pathway for other erupting adult teeth. This would prevent adult teeth from becoming impacted, damaging adjacent roots, or requiring surgical exposures in the future.
What can I expect at my 7-year old’s first orthodontic visit?
Dr. Walt and Dr. Matta will do a thorough examination of your child’s teeth, mouth and jaw. One of the wonderful Walt Orthodontics Dental Assistants will take photos and orthodontic x-rays. We scan using our state-of-the-art 3D iTero scanner named Scangela. With all these records, the Doctor is able to evaluate how the bones and teeth are forming and developing.
It is at this point where Dr. Walt or Dr. Matta would recommend interceptive (Phase 1) treatment, and if not, your child will join our 7 & Up Club – where our Doctors will monitor your child’s growth. As an exclusive member of our 7 & Up Club, your child will receive complimentary maintenance visits throughout their development. We will continue to take updated pictures, x-ray images, and new measurements. We work with you to determine the perfect time to begin orthodontic treatment.
What is the 7 & Up Club?
Our 7 & Up Club is focused on building a bond between the Walt Ortho team and your child. Ensuring their comfort every step of the way while allowing them to gain positive experiences of our orthodontic office in Vaughan. Your child will have the opportunity to spin our prize wheel at each visit, have great oral hygiene, and be able to show off their very own 7 & Up Club membership card.
Ready to Take the Next Steps?
We enjoy creating relationships with our patients, young and old! At Walt Orthodontics, we strive to provide patients with the best orthodontic care. Using modern tools and technology, all in the comfort of an inviting and fun space.
Call us today via 905.553.8666, text via 289.205.4999, or fill out a website form to book a free consultation appointment for your child.
