ST. LOUIS-Because orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth or teeth while a child still has primary or "baby" teeth present, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
Some problems are not so subtle and may be noticed by parents. The AAO has gathered examples of these kinds of problems, also known as malocclusions, in a short educational guide, Problems to Watch for in Growing Children now posted at www.braces.org in the "About Orthodontics" section.
Among malocclusions pictured in Problems to Watch for in Growing Children are crossbites, open bite, protrusion, deep bite, underbite, spacing problems, and oral habits. Orthodontists want to identify these kinds of problems in patients as early as possible so that the appropriate care can be initiated at the appropriate time for the individual patient.
Other indicators of the need for a check-up with an orthodontic specialist include:
early or late loss of baby teeth
difficulty in chewing or biting
mouth breathing
jaws that shift or make sounds
speech difficulties
biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth
facial imbalance
grinding or clenching of the teeth
If parents notice any of these signs in their children, they should consult with an orthodontist. If their child is younger than seven, it is not necessary to wait to see the orthodontist until their child reaches their seventh birthday. If a child is older than seven, a check-up is certainly advisable.
Orthodontists are uniquely qualified specialists who correct improperly aligned teeth and jaws. The Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited residency program, after graduation from dental school. Only those who have completed this rigorous training may call themselves "orthodontists." And only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.
For more information about orthodontics or for the names of AAO member orthodontists in your area, visit www.braces.org or call 1-800-STRAIGHT (1-800-787-2444). Your dentist also can provide recommendations on orthodontists near you.
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Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists receive an additional two-to-three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only orthodontists are eligible for membership in the AAO.
About the American Association of Orthodontists:
The AAO comprises 15,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad. Founded in 1900, the AAO supports research and education leading to quality patient care and promotes increased public awareness of the need for and benefits of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists are uniquely qualified to correct improperly aligned teeth and jaws. They are specialists in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two academic years of advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduation from dental school.
Press Contact:
Pam Paladin
(314) 993-1700, ext. 524
ppaladin@aaortho.org
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