The American Association of Orthodontists® (AAO) recommends an orthodontic screening by the age of 7. Some jaw and dental problems are severe enough to present early. Early problems oftentimes get worse as the patient ages, which is why early identification can be critical in the care of your child. In addition, some treatments are more effective at an early age, and therefore early treatment is actually less invasive.

This does not mean that treatment should begin on every child at this age. At Renick Orthodontics, we screen all our patients. Not every child receives early intervention with braces, but there are problems that have better outcomes if treated at an earlier age. An evaluation should be done to determine whether or not there is a need for early treatment.

Dr. Renick looks for specific problems such as crossbites, severe early crowding, early loss of baby teeth to decay, and/or growth problems. In these types of cases, early treatment, or a “Phase I” can often positively change treatment results.

When you bring your child to Renick Orthodontics, we will carefully examine their mouth and jaws to determine if early treatment will be needed, and if so, when that treatment should begin. If early orthodontic treatment is needed, we will work with you and your child to create a personalized treatment plan so that your child can enjoy the best possible results.

To learn more about early orthodontic treatment in Sunbury, Ohio, and the neighboring areas of Galena and Johnstown and schedule your child’s initial orthodontic screening, please call our office today at 740-936-5003.