At Horton Orthodontics in Woodbury, MN, we believe that great smiles start early. That’s why we support the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation that children have their first pediatric orthodontics evaluation by age 7. But why age 7? What makes this stage in a child’s development so important when it comes to early pediatric orthodontics?
Let’s take a closer look at why early evaluations—what we like to call “Smiles at 7”—can make a big difference in your child’s smile and overall oral health.
Understanding Early Pediatric Orthodontics
At around age 7, a child’s mouth typically has a mix of baby (primary) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. This unique stage gives early pediatric orthodontics professionals a clear view of how the bite is developing, how the jaw is growing and whether there might be any issues with spacing, crowding, or alignment.
By evaluating your child’s smile at this age, we can identify early warning signs of orthodontic problems—even if baby teeth are still present. This allows us to monitor growth and plan interceptive orthodontics treatment if necessary.
What We Look for in an Evaluation
During an early evaluation, our team at Horton Orthodontics assesses several key factors:
- Bite alignment: Is there an underbite, overbite, crossbite, or open bite developing?
- Tooth eruption: Are permanent teeth coming in correctly?
- Jaw growth: Are the upper and lower jaws developing in harmony?
- Crowding or spacing: Is there enough room for incoming teeth?
Our training in early pediatric orthodontics allows us to catch potential concerns early and recommend proactive solutions when needed.
The Benefits of Early Pediatric Orthodontics
Early evaluations and interceptive care can help reduce the need for more extensive treatment later. While not every child needs early care, early pediatric orthodontics can provide several key benefits:
Guides Jaw Growth
If we identify jaw growth issues early, we can use orthodontic treatments like expanders or space maintainers to help shape proper jaw development while bones are still growing.
Creates Space for Incoming Teeth
Interceptive early pediatric orthodontics can help make room for adult teeth by guiding eruption or widening the dental arch, reducing the chance of future crowding.
Improves Bite and Oral Function
Misaligned bites can affect everything from chewing to jaw comfort. Treating these issues early through orthodontics can improve function and comfort.
Supports Healthy Speech and Eating
Proper alignment supports natural speech patterns and more efficient chewing—another reason why early pediatric orthodontics can have whole-body benefits.
Builds Confidence
Kids who feel good about their smile are more likely to smile, speak up and interact confidently with others. Early pediatric orthodontics can lay the foundation for a confident future.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
Following your child’s evaluation, we’ll explain our findings and let you know if treatment is needed now or if we should continue to monitor development. Many children benefit from our Growth Guidance program, where we check in periodically to track progress and determine the best time to begin early pediatric orthodontics if needed.
Why Choose Horton Orthodontics?
At Horton Orthodontics in Woodbury, MN, our experienced team makes every visit stress-free and kid-friendly. We specialize in early pediatric orthodontics and understand how to care for growing smiles with the gentleness and patience every child deserves.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s First Visit in Woodbury, MN Today?
If your child is around age 7 and hasn’t had an early pediatric orthodontics evaluation, now’s the perfect time. Our complimentary Smiles at 7 visit is a simple, pressure-free way to learn how your child’s smile is developing—and how we can help it grow strong and healthy.
Request your child’s early pediatric orthodontics evaluation with Horton Orthodontics today—because every great smile deserves a strong start.