Orthodontic Treatment in Young Children

It is not uncommon these days to be out and about and spot young children with braces on their teeth. Many children are receiving orthodontic treatment as early as age seven because dentists and orthodontists are beginning to understand the benefits of early intervention. Up until children have reached the age where their bones are no longer growing, it is easier to manipulate the positioning of how their bodies form. This is especially true with the mouth and the positioning of the teeth. At Family & Cosmetic Dental Care we specialize in orthodontic treatment in young children who show early signs that they will need orthodontic treatment. Once permanent teeth begin coming in, it is often obvious that misalignment or an over-bite or under-bite will be an issue that needs to be addressed. With early intervention, Dr. Mitul Patel is able to begin correcting orthodontic issues in young patients.

Early intervention is often the key to correcting serious conditions. Orthodontic treatment in young children is known as interceptive orthodontics – a preventive orthodontic measure that works to eliminate certain conditions that might lead to the development of malocclusion. Children’s mouth are much more pliable and easier to manipulate at a young age. Even by the time children reach their teenage years, the mouth is not as easy to manipulate. The most common orthodontic issue in children is that of crowding. If a small dental arch is recognized early and a child of age 7 or 8 has a palatal expander placed in the mouth, the arch can be expanded to make room for the permanent teeth that have yet to emerge. While this treatment will not necessarily eliminate the need for future orthodontic treatment such as braces, it may shorten and simplify future treatment.

Dr. Mitul Patel at Family & Cosmetic Dental Care in Johns Creek is dedicated to helping patients of all ages achieve a smile that they want to keep for a lifetime. Early orthodontic treatment in young children is an advancement in dental care that can benefit patients throughout their adult years. Call today for more information and to set up an appointment for your child.

Posted by Mitul Patel DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dental Care

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