While your child is young, you’re probably conscious about teaching them about the importance of brushing their teeth. You’ll no doubt worry about potential tooth decay. Finally, you may work to help your child feel comfortable visiting the dentist. One thing you might not consider is whether your child needs orthodontic treatment. 

Orthodontic treatments help correct the position of teeth along with the many associated bite issues. But it’s possible to avoid many problems later in life if the right treatment is provided as early as possible. 

So, from what age can a child start receiving treatment to fix the position of their teeth?

Here is everything you need to know as the parent of a child receiving early orthodontic treatment. 

Orthodontic Problems Start Early

It’s common to see teenagers wearing braces and aligners, but issues with the position of our teeth can start at a much earlier age. Although it’s easy to think that because a child’s baby teeth are eventually replaced, straightening them is counterproductive. 

Teeth straightening does more than just alter their position. Orthodontic treatment at a young age helps the jaw to develop in a way that comfortably accommodates a growing smile. As facial irregularities often develop in youth, 

We can start orthodontic treatment with your child from the age of seven, and this will give them a head start on creating a healthy smile as they grow. 

What Is Invisalign First?

Invisalign First is a version of the popular orthodontic aligner system designed specifically for young children. Just like the standard Invisalign aligners worn by teenagers and adults, Invisalign First is transparent, comfortable, and removable.  

How Does Invisalign First Work?

Every set of Invisalign First aligners is designed to fit the mouth of the wearer perfectly. Using the latest digital technology, we’ll take scans of your child’s mouth so that the laboratory can create a series of bespoke aligners. 

The entire treatment is planned out before we even start, with every slight tooth movement plotted step-by-step. 

When worn, your child’s aligners apply gentle pressure against their teeth. This force gradually moves each tooth into a better position, correcting misalignments and overcrowding, closing gaps, and supporting healthy jawbone development. 

During your child’s treatment, we’ll replace their aligners every few weeks. Each new aligner is slightly different to the last and takes the tooth movement a step further.  

What Are the Benefits of Invisalign First?

Invisalign First is the perfect choice of orthodontic treatment for your child. The clear plastic aligners are discreet and barely noticeable. This is great for young smiles, who may otherwise feel self-conscious wearing a fixed appliance. 

The soft plastic aligner is comfortable. Your child will quickly adapt to wearing their aligner, meaning they’re more likely to stick to the treatment program. 

Because the aligner is removable, it makes it easier for your child to eat. Unlike a fixed brace, food won’t get trapped. Not only this, but removable aligners are very easy to clean. 

Young children will play, and when they do, they could damage or lose their aligners. Aligners are easily replaced, and if you do run into problems, temporarily reverting to the last set will ensure your child’s treatment doesn’t slip back. 

Early Orthodontics at Canon House

At Canon House, we’re fortunate to have a skilled and experienced early orthodontist, Neil Counihan. Added to this, as Platinum Invisalign providers, we’re well-placed to give your child the best possible treatment. 

Call our friendly team today to schedule your child’s first orthodontic appointment, and together, we’ll start a journey that will put your child’s dental health in good stead for life.