theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 24 UPS STORE ONSITE GREAT DISCOUNTS & PRICING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED Pharmacist in Charge: Neenu Chandy info@amwellpharmacy.com | 438 Route 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Walk in to get your FREE Flu and Covid Vaccines (no cost with most insurance) margothamel622@gmail.com As parents, we strive to provide the best possible care for our children’s health. One aspect of dental care that often requires attention at a young age is orthodontics. Many parents will often be made aware their child’s orthodontic issues at a routine dental checkup or noticing some alignment issues as adult teeth start to grow in. They may also see some of their child’s classmates with braces. So when should a child see an orthodontist? Orthodontics is a specialized field that focuses on diagnosing and correcting dental and facial irregularities. While most people associate orthodontic treatment with teenagers and adults, it is crucial to be familiar with the value of early evaluation. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. This allows orthodontists to identify any potential issues and plan appropriate intervention, if necessary. During the initial evaluation, an orthodontist assesses various factors that may contribute to orthodontic issues, such as crowding, misalignment, or improper bite. By examining the child’s teeth, jaws, and facial structure, an orthodontist can determine if there are any indications of future problems. Early detection of issues provides an opportunity for timely intervention, preventing the progression of dental irregularities and the need for more extensive treatments in the future. Early orthodontic intervention, often referred to as interceptive orthodontics, aims to address potential problems in their early stages. By taking a proactive approach, orthodontists can guide the growth and development of the teeth and jaws, correcting alignment issues and optimizing facial aesthetics. Some benefits of early orthodontic treatment include: 1. Reducing the need for tooth extraction: By intervening at a younger age, orthodontists can create sufficient space for permanent teeth, minimizing the likelihood of extraction later on. 2. Correcting bite problems: Interceptive orthodontics can address issues like overbite, under bite, cross bite, or open bite, ensuring proper alignment of the upper and lower jaws. 3. Enhancing facial symmetry: Early intervention can help guide the growth of the jaw bones, improving the overall facial appearance and symmetry. 4. Preventing speech difficulties: Correcting dental irregularities early on can prevent speech problems caused by improper tooth alignment. 5. Boosting self-esteem: By addressing orthodontic concerns early, children often have improved self-confidence and social interactions. While the optimal age for orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual, early intervention, when necessary, can often yield the best results. The teenage years are commonly associated with orthodontic treatment, as permanent teeth have erupted by that time. However, in certain cases, by initiating treatment during childhood, orthodontists can guide the growth of the teeth and jaws more effectively. It is important to note that not every child will require treatment. In some cases, the orthodontist may recommend periodic check-ups to monitor development and determine the right time to commence treatment. Orthodontic treatment duration can vary from several months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the case. As parents, understanding when it’s time for your child to see an orthodontist is crucial for their dental health and overall well-being. Early orthodontic evaluation allows for timely intervention, minimizing the severity of potential problems and optimizing treatment outcomes. By seeking an orthodontic evaluation around the age of seven, you can ensure your child’s smile develops beautifully, promoting a lifetime of oral health and confidence. Remember, a healthy smile starts with timely orthodontic care! Dr. Robert Peterman DMD, MDS Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics Somerset Orthodontic Specialists, LLC www.Somersetorthospecialists.com When Is It Time for Your Child to See an Orthodontist? By Dr. Robert Peterman, DMD, MDS Early detection of issues provides an opportunity for timely intervention, preventing the progression of dental irregularities and the need for more extensive treatments in the future. HOTLINE HEALTH
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