Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Did you know your child should have their first orthodontic assessment at age 7? That might seem early since they still have baby teeth, but an early visit could catch underlying concerns that may become more serious as your child grows. If early orthodontic treatment is needed, you will receive a customized treatment plan for your child’s unique needs!
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children’s teeth and jaws are developed enough at age 7 to address bite issues that may be problematic in the future.
At Bubon Orthodontics, we provide comfortable and convenient care for patients of all ages. During your child’s complimentary consultation, our experienced orthodontists use X-rays to assess your child’s smile and determine underlying oral health issues related to crowding, spacing, jaw misalignment, and adult tooth eruption.
Phases of Orthodontic Treatment
Before diving deeper into why early orthodontic treatment matters, did you know there are multiple phases of orthodontic treatment?
Phase I
Phase I typically starts between the ages of 7-10 and focuses on addressing oral health concerns early while a child’s mouth is still developing. By tackling concerns early, Phase I treatment can make later stages of orthodontic care easier, often shortening the overall treatment time and sometimes avoiding the need for extractions. Depending on specific needs, this phase might include tools like spacers, retainers, expanders, or partial braces.
Phase 2
Also known as traditional orthodontic treatment, Phase 2 begins once your child has most of their adult teeth. At this stage, braces or Invisalign are used to address issues like crowding, spacing, or bite misalignment, gently moving teeth into their proper positions.
The Benefits of Straight Teeth
A straight smile can boost confidence and self-esteem, but did you know straight teeth can also correct serious health issues?
Straight teeth aren’t just about looks – they’re also easier to brush and floss, which means fewer cavities, less tooth decay, and healthier gums! Did you know that a properly aligned smile can help improve sleep by fixing breathing issues caused by jaw placement, making it easier to breathe through your nose? Orthodontics can even help with speech! Crooked teeth can sometimes make certain words tough to say, but straightening your smile can help with that too!
Eliminate The Need for Extractions
At Bubon Orthodontics, we believe in treating bite issues without the need for extractions. Using advanced tools like x-rays and 3D imaging from our iTero scanners, we can catch potential problems early and address them before they become bigger concerns; this often means simpler treatment down the road!
Early Orthodontic Treatment in Chicago
As your local Chicago area orthodontist, we are proud to help shape the smiles of the future. We offer growth and development exams at no cost and no obligation. Schedule your child’s free consultation online today or call us at 773-929-5000!