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Orthodontics in Washington, DCThe American Academy of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child have an orthodontic examination by age seven. By this age, your child’s teeth have developed enough to where the subtle problems can be spotted with jaw growth and emerging teeth.

The first reason for this is because if orthodontics problems are present, it is best to catch and treat them early while they are still developing. If left uncaught or untreated, some orthodontic problems could require surgery. When you start treatment early, an orthodontist has a greater chance to:

  • Guide jaw growth
  • Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
  • Correct harmful oral habits
  • Improve appearance and self-esteem
  • Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
  • Improve the way lips meet

Another reason to have an orthodontist exam your child’s teeth by age seven is that teeth development is widely varied at that age. So it takes an expert to tell if a child may actually have an orthodontic problem, or if it’s just a normal developmental variation.

Of course, if your child is over the age of seven or if you are considering orthodontic treatment yourself, it is never too late to consult an orthodontist. According to the AAO, around one in five orthodontic patients today are adults. With the growing availability of clear aligners, translucent ceramic brackets, and lingual braces, it’s hard to tell if adults have orthodontic wear.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child or yourself, contact University Centre Dental Associates for a consultation today.