Vancouver is a coastal city located in the province of British Columbia in western Canada. It is known for its scenic beauty, diverse culture, and vibrant city life. 

As of 2016, the total population of Vancouver between the age of 0-14 was 70,530. As parents, everybody wants the best for their children, ensuring they have healthy and beautiful smiles. One way to achieve this is by seeking early orthodontic treatment for your child. For instance, choosing an experienced orthodontist in Vancouver Invisalign can help solve bite problems and uneven teeth early on.

This article will discuss the benefits of early orthodontic treatment for children and why it is essential to start the process as soon as possible.

What is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, refers to correcting orthodontic problems in children before their permanent teeth have fully erupted. This typically occurs between the ages of 7 and 11, and the treatment may involve braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Correcting Bite Problems

One of the main benefits of early orthodontic treatment is correcting bite problems. When children have issues with their bite, it can lead to a range of problems, such as difficulty eating, speaking, and even breathing. Early treatment can correct these issues, ensuring that your child’s teeth and their bite are aligned properly.

Preventing Future Dental Problems

Another advantage of early orthodontic treatment is that it can prevent future dental problems. Correcting problems such as crowding, spacing, and misaligned teeth early on reduces the risk of more serious dental issues developing in the future, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, early treatment can also prevent the need for more invasive and costly orthodontic treatment later in life.

Invisalign Treatment for the Perfect Smile

While Invisalign is often associated with adult orthodontic treatment, it can also be an effective option for children. Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit the child’s teeth and are virtually invisible, making them an excellent option for children who are self-conscious about their appearance. Invisalign aligners are also removable, which allows children to eat, brush, and floss normally. Choosing an experienced orthodontist in Vancouver for Invisalign may help correct many issues, including crowded teeth, overbites, and underbites. Overall, Invisalign is a safe and effective option for children who need orthodontic treatment.

Shorter Treatment Time

One of the significant benefits of early orthodontic treatment is that it can lead to shorter treatment times. When children receive treatment earlier, their teeth are still growing, making it easier to manipulate them into the correct position. As a result, children who receive early orthodontic treatment often have shorter treatment times and require less extensive treatment overall.

Reducing the Need for Extractions

When children have crowded teeth, it may be necessary to extract teeth to create enough space for proper alignment. However, with early orthodontic treatment, it may be possible to avoid extractions altogether. Correcting crowding early on can reduce the need for extractions later in life, which can relieve both children and parents.

When Should You Seek Early Orthodontic Treatment for Your Child?

While every child is different, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the orthodontist can detect potential problems and determine the best course of action.

During the initial evaluation, the orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth, jaws, and bite, and take X-rays if necessary. Based on the findings, they will recommend a treatment plan involving braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, seeking early orthodontic treatment for your child can significantly impact their oral health and overall well-being. Correcting orthodontic problems early on can prevent future dental issues, improve self-esteem, and reduce the need for more invasive and costly treatment later in life. It is essential to follow the American Association of Orthodontists recommendation and have your child’s first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7 to detect any potential problems and determine the best course of action. If you think your child may benefit from early orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist today to start the process and give your child the gift of a healthy and beautiful smile for life.