As a parent in Lake Jackson, you want the best for your child. That includes healthy teeth and a pleasing smile. Dr. McGrory and our team will treat your children like our own by giving them the best possible orthodontic care.
According to the American Association of Orthodontics and Dr. McGrory, it’s best for children to see an orthodontist by age seven to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and determine the best time for that patient to be treated.
The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be effectively evaluated. When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaws and guide incoming permanent teeth.
Early treatment may prevent or prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, Dr. McGrory will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
Early treatment can regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, in some cases, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment!
While the age at which kids get braces may vary, orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of 9 and 14. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they’re treated early.
Most adolescents are ready for orthodontic care when the last few baby teeth are coming out and they are close to their growth spurt. The ideal timing depends on each individual’s growth pattern, so visiting us early can ensure that treatment begins at the ideal time for your child.
If Dr. McGrory believes your child will need treatment, he’ll let you know when it will be best to begin. This gives your orthodontist the best chance to:
It’s not always easy to tell when your child may need braces or has an orthodontic problem. Even teeth that look straight may be hiding a problem bite.
Here are some clues that may indicate the need for orthodontic attention:
