Early orthodontic screenings help us identify bite and alignment issues before they become more serious. At Andover Family Dentistry in Andover, KS, Dr. Howell evaluates jaw growth, tooth positioning, and bite alignment at every exam to ensure your child’s development is on track.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early detection means simpler treatment and better outcomes.
What We Evaluate
During your child’s orthodontic screening, Dr. Howell examines how the teeth and jaw are developing and how they fit together.
We check for:
- Crowding or overlapping teeth
- Gaps or spacing issues
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Jaw alignment and growth patterns
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
These evaluations help us identify problems early and determine the best time to intervene.
Spotting Crowding & Spacing Early
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. Teeth may overlap, twist, or erupt in the wrong position. Crowding makes it difficult to clean teeth effectively, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Spacing issues, such as gaps between teeth, can also affect bite function and aesthetics. Dr. Howell will identify these issues during your child’s exam and discuss whether treatment is recommended now or if monitoring is the best approach.
Monitoring Growth Over Time
Orthodontic screenings aren’t just a one-time evaluation. Dr. Howell monitors jaw development and tooth eruption over time to ensure everything is progressing normally.
If we notice that permanent teeth aren’t erupting on schedule, that the jaw isn’t growing symmetrically, or that baby teeth aren’t falling out when they should, we can intervene early to guide development.
Regular monitoring allows us to time orthodontic treatment for maximum effectiveness.
Benefits Of Early Intervention
Early orthodontic intervention can address problems while the jaw is still growing, making treatment easier and more effective.
Early treatment can:
- Guide jaw growth to create proper alignment
- Correct habits like thumb-sucking that affect tooth position
- Create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly
- Reduce the need for tooth extractions later
- Prevent more complex treatment in the future
Not every child needs early intervention. Many children simply need monitoring as they grow. Dr. Howell will always recommend the most conservative approach.
When Treatment May Be Needed
If Dr. Howell identifies orthodontic issues that require specialized treatment, we’ll refer you to a trusted orthodontist in the Andover area. We work closely with local orthodontists to coordinate care.
Some conditions benefit from early treatment, while others are better addressed once all permanent teeth have erupted. Dr. Howell will help you understand the timing and type of treatment your child needs.
Preventing Complex Issues Later
Early detection and treatment prevent orthodontic problems from worsening. Severe crowding, significant bite discrepancies, and jaw growth issues are easier to correct when caught early.
Addressing these issues during childhood can prevent the need for more invasive treatment, like jaw surgery or extensive orthodontic work later.
Supporting Healthy Development
Proper bite alignment affects more than just appearance. It impacts your child’s ability to chew, speak, and maintain good oral hygiene. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
A properly aligned bite also distributes chewing forces evenly, reduces wear on teeth, and prevents strain on jaw joints. Early orthodontic screenings ensure that your child’s bite is developing correctly.
Schedule Your Child's Screening
At Andover Family Dentistry, early orthodontic screenings are part of the comprehensive care we provide for every child. Dr. Howell and our team are here to help you understand your child’s orthodontic needs and connect you with the right treatment at the right time.
Call our Andover, KS office or book online to schedule your child’s exam. We’re here to support your child’s oral health at every stage of development.