When should my child first visit the orthodontist?
Orthodontists play a huge role in helping to shape smiles that last a lifetime. While it may seem early, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have a consult with an orthodontic specialist no later than age seven.
Creating a straight and healthy smile begins with baby teeth. Having your child seen by an orthodontist early allows you to better understand what, if any, problems may exist and the possible solutions. Whether baby teeth are properly aligned as well as when they fall out can impact how permanent teeth erupt.
By the age of seven, enough permanent teeth have come in for an orthodontist to evaluate the relationships developing between your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite to determine if and when treatment should be started. Although an orthodontist may wait to begin treatment until all permanent teeth are in, interceptive treatment may be necessary.
University Pediatric Dentistry’s orthodontist, Douglas Olson, DMD, MS is part of our team of pediatric dental professionals. Dr. Doug has completed a fellowship in Craniofacial Orthodontics at New York University’s Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Previously, he graduated from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed his orthodontic residency at SUNY at Buffalo.
To learn more about the Dr. Doug and his orthodontic team, or to schedule a consult, please call (716) 688-7712.