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Hamada Orthodontics

159 Longview Drive, Suite A
Destrehan, LA 70047

Phone: 985-725-0509
Fax: 985-725-0584

Early Treatment

Why do some kids have braces so young these days?

Most people tend to associate braces with adolescence, but orthodontists can identify subtle problems with jaw growth or with the teeth while the primary or "baby teeth" are present.  Unfortunately, many well-meaning parents sometimes wait too long for their child's first visit to the orthodontist, resulting in longer and more complex treatment.  Braces at a young age can often eliminate the need for extractions as an adolescent.  

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic screening no later than age seven.  By this age, enough permanent teeth have erupted to effectively evaluate the bite and the growth of the jaws.  Some common problems that can be managed through interceptive treatment include:

• Early or late loss of teeth
• Oral habits such as thumb sucking
• Crowding of the teeth
• Difficulty with speech
• Facial imbalances
• "Underbites," "overbites", and crossbites
  
• Very protrusive front teeth or "buck teeth"