Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that prevents, intercepts and corrects irregularities of the teeth and jaws, to achieve a harmonious smile and correct chewing. The orthodontist is therefore the most suitable specialist to check the smiles of young children.
“Although Italian Ministry of Health guidelines recommend a first orthodontic visit for children from the age of 3, when the baby teeth are complete, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises a first visit to the dentist within the child’s first year, to check for any tooth decay or malformations and to get advice on caring for baby teeth and on diet,” explains Dr Claire Eusebio, the dentist who looks after the young patients at our clinic.
That said, between the ages of 3 and 6 it is very rare for a brace to be needed.
In most cases it is helpful to book a first specialist orthodontic check at age 6, when the baby teeth start to fall out and the permanent teeth begin to come through.
At this first visit, the orthodontist will check:
- that the baby teeth are being replaced normally;
- that there is enough room for the incoming teeth;
- that the child has not kept up bad habits such as thumb sucking;
- that the child is breathing correctly;
- that the palate is developing normally;
- that the jaw is growing harmoniously, allowing the teeth to meet properly;
- whether there is any tooth decay or gum problem;
- the shape of the lip and tongue frenula.
Malocclusion is not unusual in young patients, but it does not necessarily mean a brace. The orthodontist will assess the timing of any treatment case by case, scheduling a series of check-ups every six months or once a year while waiting for the best moment to treat.
What matters most is to get children used, from an early age, to not being afraid of the dentist and to looking after their own oral hygiene, so that they keep their beautiful smile for as long as possible.
