There is no need to wait for your dentist to give you a referral to come in. Instead, look for these indicators and schedule and appointment so we can evaluate if your child needs orthodontic intervention.
1) You may notice something is off but there also could be things the untrained eye can’t see.
Often times parents are the first to realize something may be off with their child's teeth or jaw. For example, issues with chewing or biting, breathing through their mouth or the teeth not fitting together. Though sometimes it’s more than what meets the eye. Let an orthodontist take a look and see what is below the surface. You do not have to wait for a general dentist to refer you
2) The earlier, the better. Take them by Age 7
By Age 7 there are enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate if there is a problem that exists or is starting to develop. Orthodontists can take x-rays and photos to assess if there are any extra teeth, missing teeth or teeth coming in the wrong direction. Left unaddressed, these issues could lead to more costly and invasive work down the road. It is best to move teeth young while the bone is still pliable.
3) You don’t need a dentist referral.
Parents often assume their dentist will make them a referral when they are ready. However, the referral may not come if the bite is not being evaluated or any other underlying issues that would be addressed by an orthodontist. Even if they are not ready for orthodontia it is great to get them in every year, for an observation, to keep a close eye.
Putting off a first visit to the orthodontist until all of the permanent teeth are in could do more harm than good.
Everything is growing, including the bones in the jaw and face. It is at the age of 6 that the first permanent molars appear. Baby teeth then begin to fall out and are replaced by larger-sized permanent teeth. Often it happens in a predictable, particular order. Until it doesn’t. The gums will often hide 2/3 of the tooth, as well bone that holds the teeth in place. This can mask conditions that interfere with the development of these teeth. It is important to watch for clues-such as trouble chewing and biting, speech difficulties and mouth-breathing. If these are not addressed until the child has all their permanent teeth and after they are done growing, correcting the problem may be more difficult. Though some children can wait until their permanent teeth. Others have orthodontic problems that need to be taken care of while some baby teeth are still present. Which will require growth guidance of the bones to allow room for the permanent teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children should have their first visit with and Orthodontist no later than age 7.
