Why Timing Matters in a Growing Smile
Children don’t need a full set of adult teeth to benefit from orthodontic attention. In fact, early checks may catch problems before they fully develop. At TMJ Therapy Centre, we offer early orthodontic assessments designed to guide jaw growth, support healthy bite alignment, and reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
We recommend that children are assessed between the age of four and five, and treatment can commence right away if required.
What Is Early Orthodontic Care?
Also called interceptive orthodontics, this approach focuses on identifying and managing concerns during the mixed dentition phase, when both baby and adult teeth are present. Usually recommended between the ages of seven and ten, this timing allows your child’s dentist to monitor how the jaws and teeth form.
Get Benefits That Go Beyond a Straighter Smile
Early orthodontic care isn’t just about appearance. It can help:
- Guide proper jaw growth
- Make space for incoming teeth
- Improve bite function and comfort
- Reduce habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting
- Lower the risk of dental trauma from protruding front teeth
By working with natural development, early care can simplify or even shorten later treatment.
What to Expect During an Evaluation
During your child’s visit, we’ll examine how their jaws fit together, whether teeth are crowding or spaced unevenly, and how the adult set will likely emerge. X-rays or scans may be used to get a complete picture. If intervention is needed, it may include removable plates, space maintainers, or other gentle methods.
Sometimes, the best step is simply to monitor progress and reassess as they grow.
Starting Earlier and Smiling Sooner
Children who receive early orthodontic support often feel more confident, not just because their smile looks better, but because they can speak, eat, and breathe more comfortably. Catching issues early also means fewer surprises down the road.
Support Their Smile from the Start
Every child deserves a smile that grows with them. If your little one is around age seven, book an orthodontic check with TMJ Therapy Centre to ensure their smile develops in a healthy direction.