A common question among parents in Scarborough, ME is, “When should my child visit the orthodontist?” Dr. Christopher Murphy at Southern Maine Orthodontics is here to answer that question for you.
Orthodontic treatment aligns teeth into a beautiful smile, moving them from their current position to their desired position. While anyone can benefit from orthodontics at any age, certain periods are more favorable, particularly during growth spurts in children aged 7-12.
Imagine trying to turn the wheel of a car without power steering when it’s not moving. It’s possible but much harder than when the car is in motion. During growth phases, teeth and jaw development are active, making it easier for an orthodontist to guide natural jaw growth and create space for developing teeth.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation for children by age 7 to assess the need for early treatment. Orthodontists undergo three extra years of training beyond dental school, specializing in tooth movement and jaw growth.
No referral from your general dentist is needed for a complimentary orthodontic evaluation. Take the initiative and contact our office to schedule a complimentary smile exam. If your child isn’t ready for early treatment, we’ll monitor their dental and jaw growth to identify the perfect time to start treatment.