Why Age Seven?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age seven. At this stage, your child has a mix of baby and adult teeth, allowing a specialized orthodontist in North Platte or McCook to evaluate how the jaw is growing and how the permanent teeth are coming in.
While most children won’t need braces right away, an early exam allows Dr. Haugen to monitor their development and determine the “perfect” time to begin treatment.
Benefits of Early (Phase I) Treatment
In some cases, early intervention can prevent the need for more invasive treatments later in life. Advantages of early treatment include:
- Guiding Jaw Growth: Ensuring the upper and lower arches are the correct width.
- Creating Space: Making room for crowded permanent teeth to erupt naturally.
- Avoiding Extractions: Reducing the likelihood of needing permanent teeth pulled in the future.
- Correcting Habits: Addressing issues like thumb-sucking or minor speech impediments.
- Improving Self-Esteem: Helping children feel confident in their smiles during their developmental years.
Signs Your Child May Need an Evaluation
As a parent, you might notice certain signs that indicate it’s time to see an orthodontist in McCook or North Platte:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth.
- Difficulty chewing or biting food comfortably.
- Persistent finger or thumb-sucking habits.
- Mouth breathing.
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth.
- Jaws that shift, make sounds, or appear out of proportion to the face.
A Friendly Environment for Our Youngest Patients
We know that a visit to the orthodontist can feel a little intimidating for a child. Our team at Haugen Orthodontics goes above and beyond to create a fun, welcoming atmosphere. We take the time to explain everything in “kid-friendly” terms, ensuring your child feels safe and excited about their journey to a better smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
No referral is necessary! While many dentists recommend us, you can schedule a screening for your child directly at our McCook or North Platte office.
Most likely not. The goal of an age-seven visit is evaluation. If treatment is needed, it’s often “Phase I” to correct structural issues. Otherwise, we simply place them in our “Observation Club” to monitor growth.
Early interceptive treatment typically lasts between 6 and 12 months, focusing on specific developmental goals before a child is ready for full braces later.
While traditional braces are common, we offer various appliances and even clear aligners for certain pediatric cases. Dr. Haugen will discuss the best fit for your child’s needs.
Actually, early treatment can often save you money in the long run by preventing the need for complex surgeries or permanent tooth extractions as your child grows.