Orthodontic treatment can be broken into phases. The first phase occurs early on in life, normally when adult teeth begin to replace baby teeth. The second occurs during a patient’s teenage years. Breaking orthodontic treatment into phases can reduce the need for external orthodontic appliances and can reduce the time people wear braces.
If you’re a parent or caregiver, we recommend scheduling your child’s first orthodontic consultation around the age of seven. A consultation scheduled in childhood gives our team a chance to detect potential issues that might require professional intervention. Your child’s first consultation will include a physical examination along with diagnostic images such as X-rays and photographs. This appointment is also a great time for you and your child to become acquainted with Dr. Mascola and our practice.
Why Early Orthodontic Treatment is Important
Scheduling an orthodontic consultation in childhood is beneficial to children. This appointment can lead to the detection of issues with the bite or developmental problems and can help determine whether there is enough room to accommodate the arrival of adult teeth. Addressing developmental issues or those that arise during tooth transition can help establish good oral health at an early age.