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Early Orthodontic Treatment Prestwich Orthodontics in Minot, ND
Smile by Prestwich Orthodontics

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Most of the time, the immediate benefit of a timely evaluation is a parent’s peace of mind. For others, early intervention can help prevent more serious problems from developing.

When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Tyler Prestwich can assess your child’s jaw development and tooth alignment to determine whether early treatment is necessary. Many local dentists are trained to identify orthodontic concerns early and may refer your child to our office before age 7 if needed.

Why Age 7?

Early diagnosis allows us to:

  • Guide emerging teeth into proper alignment.
  • Preserve space for permanent teeth.
  • Minimize the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth.
  • Prevent serious orthodontic issues that may require more complex treatment later.

If early intervention is recommended, Dr. Prestwich can help:

  • Correct jaw growth issues.
  • Create adequate space for permanent teeth.
  • Reduce the need for tooth extractions.
  • Lower the risk of impacted teeth.
  • Address habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.
  • Improve speech development.
Early treatment can simplify future orthodontic care and improve your child’s long-term oral health.

Does Every Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Not all children require early orthodontic treatment. Some conditions are best addressed after all permanent teeth have erupted during adolescence. If Dr. Prestwich determines that immediate treatment isn’t necessary, your child can join our Kids Club!

Will Early Orthodontic Treatment Eliminate the Need for Braces for Kids Later?

Early treatment can correct significant orthodontic problems and make future treatment simpler and more efficient. However, because permanent teeth are still growing in, a Phase II treatment (full braces) may still be needed during the teen years to perfect final alignment. In some cases, early treatment may eliminate the need for braces entirely!

Should My Child Still See a Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?

Absolutely! Routine dental checkups are essential throughout orthodontic care. Braces and appliances require extra effort to keep teeth and gums clean. We recommend visiting your family dentist every six months for cleanings and exams to maintain optimal oral health.

Growing Smiles Problems Kids Prestwich Orthodontics in Minot, ND
Learn More about our Kids Club!

Wondrous Facts

Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, was the world’s oldest dog at 29.5 years old.

Animals can be allergic to human dander, aka our dead skin cells.

It is impossible for most people to lick their own elbow. (Try it!)

Like fingerprints, everyone’s tongue print is different.

Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur.

“Stewardesses” is the longest word that is typed with only the left hand.

Snails have more teeth than humans, with over 25,000 tiny teeth.

Giraffes only have bottom teeth, which they use to comb leaves off branches.

Ancient Egyptians used a mixture of ground charcoal, salt, and pepper as toothpaste.

The first toothbrush was invented in China in the 15th century and was made from bamboo twigs.

In 1994, a West Virginia prison inmate braided dental floss into a rope, scaled the wall, and escaped!

In the 1800s, blacksmiths and barbers also served as dentists.

Sports-related injuries account for approximately 5 million missing teeth per year.

The most valuable tooth belonged to Sir Isaac Newton. In 1816, one of his teeth was sold in London for $3,633.00, or in today’s terms, $35,700.00. The tooth was set in a ring.

Dolphins use their teeth to grab only, not to chew, as dolphins’ jaws have no muscles.

In 200 A.D., the Romans used a mixture of bones, eggshells, oyster shells, and honey to clean their teeth.

Orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists: only about 5% of dentists become orthodontists. This specialization requires additional training after dental school.

There are about 1.8 million heads of cattle in North Dakota, more than twice the number of people.

The famous breakfast staple cream of wheat was first made in Grand Norks, North Dakota, by Wheat Millers in 1893.

North Dakota is the no. 1 producer of honey in the nation. Check out the North Dakota bee map.

The world’s largest hamburger was eaten in Rutland, North Dakota. It weighed 3,591 pounds and more than 8,000 people were invited to the meal.

The eastern portion of North Dakota is a flat valley. With its mineral-rich soil, it is among the world’s most fertile areas.  That’s why it is filled with productive farms that feed the U.S.  It is interesting to note that the valley was once the floor of an ancient lake. 

North Dakota is home to more wildlife refuges (63) than any other state. Wildlife viewing and birding opportunities are abundant.