Orthodontic Treatment in Woodridge, IL

If your child is around seven years old, it might be time to think about early orthodontic treatment in Woodridge, IL. At Girgis & Ito Orthodontics, we want to help you understand why this might be a good idea and how it can help your child have a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

What's the Difference Between Early and Regular Orthodontics?

Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase One, usually starts when your child is about eight or nine years old. The main goal is to fix problems with how the jaw is growing and to correct certain bite issues, like an underbite.

It also helps make space for permanent teeth so they can come in the right way. This can mean your child might not need to have teeth pulled later on. If you’re looking for help, an orthodontist near you can check your child’s teeth and guide you on the right steps to take. Regular orthodontic treatment usually happens when a child is older, around 11 or older, and all or most of their permanent teeth have come in.

Why Might Your Child Need Early Treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists says that kids should see an orthodontist by age seven. Here are some signs that your child might need early treatment:

Losing baby teeth too early or too late

Having trouble chewing or biting

Breathing through the mouth

Sucking their thumb after age five

Having trouble speaking clearly

Having teeth that stick out

Teeth that don’t meet properly

The jaw shifts when they open or close their mouth

Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight

What Causes Orthodontic Problems?

Orthodontic problems may result from:

Genes (inherited from parents)

Mouth injuries

Losing the baby teeth too early or too late

Thumb-sucking

Such complications may lead to overcrowding of teeth, excessive spacing of teeth, problems with jaw growth, teeth that stick out, and bad bites.

How Will Early Treatment Help Your Child?

Early treatment can make a big difference. By fixing problems early, we can:

Guide the jaw’s growth

Make room for permanent teeth

Improve how the lips meet

Lower the chance of needing teeth pulled

Reduce the time needed for braces later on

Because kids’ jawbones are still growing, it’s often easier to fix problems early. Adult orthodontic treatment can take longer and sometimes needs tooth removal or surgery. Early orthodontic treatment near you can help avoid these issues.

Schedule Your Child’s First Visit!

If your child is between seven and eight years old, or a professional mentioned seeing an orthodontist in Woodridge, IL, or if you’ve noticed any of the signs listed above, we are here to help. At Girgis & Ito Orthodontics, our friendly team will perform a careful checkup and talk to you about the next steps.

We are committed to delivering kind and skilled treatment for kids. Early orthodontic treatment can have a significant impact on your child’s future smile. Schedule your child’s initial orthodontic appointment today by calling our office.