Every parent wants the best for their child, including a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Orthodontic health plays a key role in not only their appearance but also their overall development as they grow. At Farnsworth Family Orthodontics, we believe that early prevention is the key to avoiding more serious orthodontic problems down the road. In this blog, we’ll share tips on how you can help prevent early orthodontic issues in children.
Schedule an Early Orthodontic Evaluation
You may have heard of the American Association of Orthodontists’ (AAO) recommendation for a child’s first orthodontic checkup at the age of seven. This is not just a random milestone—it’s a critical point in a child’s dental development.
At age seven, most children are transitioning from baby teeth to permanent teeth, and potential orthodontic issues, like crowding or misalignment, begin to show. By scheduling an early evaluation with our team at Farnsworth Family Orthodontics, including Dr. David Farnsworth, Dr. Justin Sorensen, and Dr. Jae Brimhall, we can identify and address any issues before they become more serious.
Keep in mind that some children may need an orthodontic assessment even earlier, especially if they show signs of:
- Crowding or spacing issues: Teeth that are too tightly packed or too widely spaced can signal early alignment problems.
- Bite problems: An overbite, underbite, or crossbite can interfere with proper jaw development and lead to other issues like difficulty chewing or speaking.
- Mouth breathing: This could be a sign of jaw or airway issues that may need orthodontic attention.
Early detection allows us to guide your child’s dental development and prevent more complex treatments in the future.
Help Them Avoid Harmful Habits
As parents, we often smile at the cute habits our kids pick up, but some behaviors can have lasting impacts on their orthodontic health. Thumb-sucking, for example, is one of the most common habits that can push teeth out of alignment, often leading to an overbite.
Another habit to watch for is prolonged pacifier use. While pacifiers can be soothing, using them for too long can cause changes in the teeth and jaw, similar to thumb-sucking. If you’re concerned about your child’s habits, our offices in Lubbock and San Angelo, Texas, and Carlsbad, Clovis, and Hobbs, New Mexico, are here to help guide you through the best solutions.
Develop an Oral Hygiene Routine
Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing orthodontic issues. Establishing brushing, flossing, and rinsing routines early helps your child maintain healthy teeth and gums. These habits reduce the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease—all of which can affect your child’s long-term orthodontic health.
By teaching your kids proper oral care, you’re setting them up for success. Here are some quick tips to make brushing fun and effective:
- Turn brushing into a game: Use a timer or play your child’s favorite song to make brushing for two minutes more enjoyable.
- Brush together: Let your child see you brushing your teeth, too, so they know it’s part of everyone’s routine.
- Create a reward system: Use stickers or charts to track consistent brushing and offer small rewards for good habits.
- Let them choose a fun toothbrush: Picking a toothbrush in a fun color or with their favorite character can make brushing more exciting.
- Start early: Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears to establish healthy habits from the start.
Give Your Kids the Gift of Healthy Smiles
Watching your child grow up healthy and happy is a priority for every parent, and early orthodontic care plays a vital role in that journey. At Farnsworth Family Orthodontics, we’re here to support you with expert care and personalized treatment plans. If you’re in Texas or New Mexico, schedule a free consultation with our team, and we’ll help guide your child to a lifetime of healthy smiles.