Times When Early Orthodontic Intervention Can Help
Posted on 9/15/2025 by Raleigh Family Orthodontics
Many people think of braces as something teenagers get, but early orthodontic intervention can be incredibly beneficial for children of all ages. While the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial check-up around age 7, there are situations where earlier intervention can make a big difference.
Addressing Specific Concerns
There are specific dental problems that can benefit greatly from early orthodontic treatment. These include:
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Severe crowding or spacing issues: When baby teeth are lost prematurely or adult teeth erupt in the wrong order, it can lead to significant crowding or spacing problems. Early intervention can help guide the eruption of permanent teeth and create more space for them to grow in properly.
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Crossbites: This occurs when the upper and lower jaws are not aligned correctly, causing the lower teeth to bite on the inside of the upper teeth. Early treatment can help correct the jaw alignment and prevent future complications.
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Open bites: When the upper and lower front teeth don't meet when biting together, it's called an open bite. This can make it difficult to chew properly and can also affect speech. Early intervention can help close the open bite and improve oral function.
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Protruding front teeth: Teeth that stick out too far are more prone to chipping or breaking. Early treatment can help bring the front teeth back into alignment and protect them from damage.
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Harmful habits: Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and other habits can negatively impact jaw development and tooth alignment. Early intervention can help break these habits and prevent future orthodontic problems.
Benefits Beyond Straightening Teeth
While a beautiful smile is often the most noticeable result of early orthodontic treatment, there are many other benefits. These include:
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Improved oral hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
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Better chewing function: Properly aligned teeth allow for more efficient chewing, which can improve digestion and overall health.
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Enhanced self-esteem: A confident smile can boost a child's self-esteem and help them feel more comfortable in social situations.
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Reduced need for future treatment: Early intervention can address problems before they become severe, potentially reducing the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later on.
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Improved airway health: In some cases, early orthodontic treatment can help improve breathing by correcting jaw alignment and opening up the airway.
Recognizing the Signs
Parents can play a significant role in recognizing the signs that their child might benefit from early orthodontic intervention. Some signs to watch for include:
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Difficulty chewing or biting
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Speech problems
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Mouth breathing
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Thumb sucking or other harmful habits
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Crowded or misaligned teeth
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Jaws that don't seem to fit together properly
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it's important to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. They can assess your child's individual needs and determine if early intervention is appropriate.
Early orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child's oral health and overall well-being. By addressing problems early on, you can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
About Us • Raleigh Family Ortho Learn more about Dr. Lee & Dr. Neill, their Raleigh dental practice, and some basic information about orthodontics. Call us today to schedule! Raleigh Family Orthodontics, 9201 Leesville Road STE 160, Raleigh, NC 27613 : (984) 254-0585 : raleighfamilyortho.com : 10/2/2025 : Tags: orthodontist RALEIGH NC :
Many people think of braces as something teenagers get, but early orthodontic intervention can be incredibly beneficial for children of all ages. While the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial check-up around age 7, there are situations where earlier intervention can make a big difference.