Parents usually have numerous questions about orthodontics treatment for their children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, orthodontics treatment for children should start at around seven years of age. This allows Drs. Brian St. Louis and George Cantu to evaluate the child’s existing and incoming teeth to determine whether or not early treatment might be necessary.
What is early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, known as Phase One, usually begins when the child is eight or nine years old. The goal is to correct bite problems such as an underbite as well as guide the jaw’s growth pattern. It also helps to make room in the mouth for the permanent teeth to be properly placed as they come in. This will greatly reduce the risk of the child needing extractions later in life due to his or her teeth getting crowded.
Does your child need early orthodontic treatment?
There are several ways that you can determine whether your child needs early treatment. If you observe any of these characteristics or behaviors, you should talk to Drs. Brian St. Louis and George Cantu.
- Early loss of baby teeth (before age five)
- Lat loss of baby teeth (after age five or six)
- The child’s teeth do not meet properly or at all
- The child is a mouth breather
- Front teeth are crowded (you won’t see this until the child is about seven or eight)
- Protruding teeth, typically in the front
- Biting or chewing difficulties
- A speech impediment
- The child’s jaw shifts when he or she opens or closes the mouth
- The child is older than five years and still sucks a thumb
What are the benefits of seeking orthodontic treatment early?
Early orthodontic treatment is begun while the child’s jaw bones are still soft. They do not harden until the children reach their late teens. Because the bones are still pliable, corrective procedures such as braces work faster than they do for adults.
In short, early treatment at our Austin, TX office often allows your child to avoid lengthy procedures, extraction, and surgery in adulthood. Early treatment is an effective preventive measure that lays the foundation for a healthy, stable mouth in adulthood.
Awesome Experience
by Norma Constancio
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff were wonderful! From their friendly staff, nice office environment and Dr. St. Louis always willing to answer my questions. I would 100% recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone.
Amazing staff
by Ms. Locke
Category: orthodontistI recently finished my treatment and was looking for the backup retainers. After doing my research I decided to make an appointment with Central Texas Orthodontics. I got it scheduled the same day and had my retainers ready in two weeks! Dr. St. Louis and the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcomed and cared for. I highly recommend this office to anyone who needs a new set of retainers!
Great doctor and staff
by Sherry lewis
Category: orthodontistGreat doctor and staff. I’ve had 2 sets of braces and misc work. Very professional, clean, and nice people. Kudos to Dr St. Louis for giving me a perfect smile. My TMJ doctor commended me on my perfect teeth alignment ! highly recommend.
Wonderful
by Amanda Manti
Category: orthodontistWe had a wonderful experience with two of our children getting their teeth straightened at this office. Love the staff-friendly and fun. And Dr. B did a fantastic job. After delays due to Covid, he personally went well out of his way to see my daughter and it was so appreciated! Thank you!
Awesome Staff
by Phillip
Category: orthodontistThe staff here is always so pleasant. They communicate well with their patients and are always easy to consult. I've had nothing but positive experiences here at Central Texas Orthodontist. I enjoy getting to see everyone when I visit.
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