Orthodontist Orange County, CA

Oral Health Starts Early

As a parent, you take the responsibility to make sure your child gets off to the right start in life. That includes his or her oral health. One way to make that happen is to have any orthodontic issues, especially bite problems, corrected early. A correctly aligned bite can ensure better chewing ability, which can improve digestion. 

When Can My Child Get Braces?

In a consultation, an orthodontic professional can inform you at what age is most appropriate to fit a child with braces. There is no official age limit; professionals need to examine each individual case and determine when it’s best to apply them. However, in general, children should have their first orthodontic check at about the age of seven. They should have braces fitted while the head and mouth are still growing, as the teeth are better suited to being straightened.

Does My Child Really Need Braces?

If you are wondering whether your child really needs braces, you would be best served by discussing the matter with an orthodontist from a clinic like John Redmond Orthodontics. The orthodontist can explain the nature of how the teeth fit together and explain why a correctly aligned bite is so essential for long-term oral health. An orthodontist can also assess your child’s smile to determine the best course of action for crooked, gapped, crowded, or misaligned teeth.

Why Should Bite Issues Be Corrected Early?

When your child visits with an orthodontist at the age of seven, his or her bite issues are subject to early evaluation, and that may fend off any potential problems that are developing. If you wait until the teeth and jaws are fully formed and hardened, the process of correcting any issues may be much more complicated. 

Furthermore, when the bite is correctly aligned, it is easier for the child to clean the teeth properly and follow the necessary oral hygiene practices. This may help to limit trips to the dentist for fillings and other issues that may arise from poor oral health.

How Much Will It Cost?

Understandably, you will want to know what the braces process will cost. You may be eligible for a payment plan or other financial arrangements. Many clinics will work with their patients to ensure they receive the proper care and at an affordable price as the prices can vary on different factors. Once you have an idea of the cost, you’ll be able to make a more educated decision.