Orthodontic Screenings

Monitoring Growth for Proper Tooth Alignment

Orthodontic care can improve the alignment and spacing of teeth at any age, but early evaluations offer important advantages while a child’s teeth and jaw are still developing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening around age 7. Even if treatment is not immediately needed, early visits allow our team to monitor growth and identify potential concerns at the right time.

Around this age, the first permanent molars begin to come in, helping establish the foundation of the bite. This stage allows us to evaluate how the teeth are aligning and how the upper and lower jaws are developing together. Early detection can lead to more efficient and effective treatment if needed.

Some common orthodontic concerns include:

• Overbite, where the upper teeth extend too far forward
• Underbite, where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
• An open bite, where front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed
• Crossbite, where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly
• Crowding, where there is not enough space for teeth to align correctly

Early orthodontic monitoring and treatment can offer several benefits:

• Improving alignment and reducing crowding
• Supporting balanced jaw development
• Lowering the risk of injury to protruding teeth
• Creating space for incoming permanent teeth
• Reducing the need for extractions
• Shortening future orthodontic treatment time

If your child is age 7 or older, contact Cedar Lake Dental to schedule an orthodontic evaluation and ensure their development stays on the right track.