Orthodontics for Children - Hart Orthodontics

Your Orthodontist
for Children in Oakville

Why would a young child need orthodontics?

A preventive approach to orthodontics, implemented when children are between 7 and 10 years old, can reduce the need for more invasive treatment later on.

Guiding Jaw Growth

Early treatment allows orthodontists to guide the growth of the jaws, ensuring they develop properly and in harmony with each other. This can prevent more severe problems from developing as the child grows older.

Correcting Bite Issues

Interceptive orthodontic treatment can address bite issues such as crossbites, overbites, and underbites before they worsen over time. By correcting these issues early, it may reduce the need for more extensive treatment later on.

Creating Space

Early orthodontic treatment can create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly, reducing the likelihood of crowding and minimizing the need for tooth extractions in the future.

Preventing Habits

Orthodontists can intervene early to address harmful habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which can contribute to orthodontic problems if left untreated.

Improving Facial Symmetry

Early treatment can help improve facial symmetry by guiding the growth of the jaws and aligning the teeth properly. This can enhance the overall appearance of the face and smile.

Boosting Self-Esteem

Addressing orthodontic issues early can prevent self-esteem issues related to crooked or misaligned teeth, helping children feel more confident about their smiles during crucial developmental stages.

Reducing Treatment Complexity

Early orthodontic intervention may reduce the complexity and duration of future orthodontic treatment. By addressing problems when they are still developing, orthodontists can often achieve better results more efficiently.

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists advises that every child should have an initial visit to an orthodontist by age 7.

This recommendation is due to various conditions and behaviors in children, such as speech issues, snoring, eating problems, and teeth grinding, which may be linked to airway or orthodontic issues. There are numerous reasons you might be thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child. It could be a suggestion from your family dentist or physician, or perhaps you've noticed other parents with young children undergoing orthodontic care. Whatever your reason, considering orthodontic treatment for your child likely raises many questions. Is it too early? Is it fair to your child? What are the long-term benefits? Is it necessary? We understand your concerns, and we're here to provide answers.

Prevention & Growth Guidance

Our understanding of the ideal approach to orthodontics has evolved significantly over the years. We now recognize the benefits of utilizing the natural growth patterns of children's palates and jaws to promote healthier development. Contrary to the common myth that orthodontic treatment should wait until permanent adult teeth have erupted, the opposite is true. By age 4, about 60% of facial development is complete, and by age 12, this figure rises to 90%. Addressing orthodontic issues early increases the likelihood of achieving positive outcomes for both oral and overall health. This is why early detection and proactive intervention are crucial for ensuring your child's oral health in their teen and adult years.

Early Treatments for Children

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontic treatment, involves addressing orthodontic issues in children at a younger age, typically between the ages of 7 and 10. In some cases, early orthodontic treatment in children may be recommended. Here’s why early orthodontic treatment can be beneficial: