Early Orthodontic Treatment

What age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children visit the orthodontist no later than age 7. Orthodontic treatment may not be necessary at this age, but these visits help Dr. Himelhoch detect problems early on. By age 7, the first adult molars have typically grown in. With the growth of these teeth, an orthodontist can begin to evaluate tooth relationships, and identify potential bite problems. Dr. Himelhoch offers top quality orthodontic treatment for children from Framingham, Southborough, Ashland, Wayland, Natick, Marlborough, Hopkinton, and the surrounding areas.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic visits for young children?

Early intervention, also known as interceptive treatment, helps to guide proper growth and development, preventing more serious problems later on. If orthodontic treatment is not necessary at this early age, continuous monitoring can help determine when the appropriate treatment time may be. Interceptive treatment can help:

• Reduce the need for tooth removal
• Reduce treatment time with braces later on
• Make room for crowded teeth
• Help influence proper jaw growth

What is a malocclusion?

A variety of conditions fall under the category of malocclusion. At the most basic level, a malocclusion refers to a misalignment between the teeth. Treating a malocclusion is important for a variety of reasons. Correcting common bite problems can help with chewing food, speech, reducing the risk of tooth decay and TMJ, and also improve oral hygiene.

Learn more about common bite problems, and find out how Dr. Himelhoch can help! Schedule a consultation at our Framingham Orthodontist Office today!