|
In accordance with the American Association of Orthodontists,
at Gandy Orthodontics, Dr. Gandy recommends that all
children 7 years of age or older to be evaluated by an
orthodontist.
But, why age 7?
 Usually by the seventh
birthday, the child’s permanent teeth have started
to erupt and the presence of spaces, crowding, rotations,
cross-bites, and other orthodontic problem has begun
to become evident. The child is now in the mixed dentition
(both baby and adult teeth are present). Further, using
x-rays, presence or lack of development of any teeth
can usually be detected. Any oral habits including finger
sucking and tongue thrust can be evaluated at this time.
During an exam appointment, Dr. Gandy can also evaluate
the development of facial bones and bite relationship
between upper and lower teeth.
At Gandy Orthodontics,
using Orthopedic appliances (i.e. Rapid Palatal Expander “RPE”,
Headgear, Facemask, or functional appliances) in a growing
child, we are often able to make significant changes
in growth and development of upper and lower jaws. We
are able to interrupt harmful oral habits, such as thumb
and finger sucking. We can also guide permanent teeth
into desirable positions or preserve or gain space for
their eruption in the future. Correction of orthodontic
problems as well as establishment of a good bite relationship
at an early age can help prevent some orthodontic problems
in the future. Interceptive orthodontic treatment can
potentially simplify treatment or shorten its duration
in the future. Orthodontic intervention at an early age
can also drastically improve a child’s self esteem
and appearance.
Following a comprehensive orthodontic
evaluation of a child, Dr. Gandy usually recommends one
of the following courses of action:
- No orthodontic
intervention may be necessary.
- Interceptive
orthodontic treatment may be indicated.
- Interceptive
orthodontic treatment as well as orthopedic treatment
may be indicated.
- Patient may be put on recall
and be seen at some time in the future.
- Removal
of some baby teeth alone, or concurrently with any of
the treatment modalities already mentioned, may be indicated.
|
