Ortho Screenings & Early Treatment

ORTHO SCREENINGS

TIME TO STRAIGHTEN UP

THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORTHODONTISTS (AAO) RECOMMENDS THAT ALL CHILDREN HAVE A CHECK-UP WITH AN ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST NO LATER THAN AGE 7.


A variety of tooth and jaw issues can be resolved through orthodontics. Dr. Steven Oppenheimer may point out that your child's baby teeth appear crowded, or the relationship between the upper lower teeth isn't ideal.


Although many orthodontic wearers are teenagers, braces play a role for some children in their earlier years. Since permanent teeth are typically larger than baby teeth, space may need to be opened with the gentle force of braces or a device called a palatal expander. This allows adult teeth to move into place correctly, helping avoid more extensive treatment later.


A narrow jaw or a large overbite may create a similar dilemma. Gently guiding your child’s jaw growth while they are developing can make a tremendous difference down the road.

  • REASONS FOR EARLY EXAMS

    • The posterior bite is established when the first molars come in. At that time, we can evaluate the space and size of the teeth and the mouth, as well as discover any shifts or crossbites.
    • Incisors (front teeth) have begun to erupt and problems can be detected such as crowding, habits, deep bites, open bites and some jaw discrepancies.
    • Certain habits and bites can lead to increased difficulty in treatment later on, and are more easily resolved for the patient earlier on with removable or fixed appliances.
    • We are better able to guide the adult teeth into a more correct bite when resolving of habits is started earlier.
    • For some, a timely evaluation will lead to significant treatment benefits; for others, the principal immediate benefit is a parent’s peace of mind.

    The AAO does not advocate comprehensive orthodontic treatment at age 7. However, interceptive treatment may be appropriate.

  • CHOOSING THE OPTIMAL TIME FOR TREATMENT

    While orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of 9 and 14, some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they’re treated early. If it appears that treatment will be needed, your orthodontist can advise you as to the ideal time to begin. 


    This gives your orthodontist the best 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
    • Final treatment decisions should be made among the parent, child’s dentist and orthodontist.

  • DIFFERENT TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN INCLUDE...

    • Expanders
    • Bite plates for Deep Bites
    • Thumb Sucking Appliances
    • 2×4 – Braces only on the molars (2) and front teeth (4) in order to correct localized problems like increased spacing of front teeth
    • Early Extractions in order to relieve crowding and make space for adult teeth to come in correctly

  • HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD NEEDS EARLY TREATMENT?

    You can CONTACT US at 516-569-7753 at any time for your Complimentary Initial Consultation.

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