The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a checkup with an orthodontic specialist no later than the age 7.

Here's Why:

• Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.
• While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist could detect.
• A checkup may reveal that your child's bite is fine. Or Dr. Ritucci may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring your child's growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for your child. In other cases, he might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
• Early treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, Dr. Ritucci will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
• Early treatment benefits are:
  1. Guide jaw growth
  2. Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
  3. Correct harmful oral habits
  4. Improve appearance
  5. Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
  6. Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips and face
• Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you'll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.

If your child is older than 7, it's certainly not too late for a checkup. Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, Dr. Ritucci will recommend the optimal treatment at the most appropriate time for your child.