What Is Orthodontic Assessment?
Orthodontic assessments allow us to evaluate the growth and development of your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite. These evaluations typically begin around age 7, when permanent teeth start to come in and early signs of crowding, spacing, or bite issues may appear. Through visual exams, imaging, and growth monitoring, we can identify whether orthodontic care might be needed now or in the future.
By assessing your child’s alignment early, we’re able to plan for the right timing and approach to treatment. Some children benefit from early intervention, while others may need orthodontic care later during adolescence. These assessments give us the information we need to support long-term dental health, facial balance, and proper function. We use a comfortable, pressure-free approach to explain what we’re seeing and answer all your questions. Even if treatment isn’t needed right away, regular monitoring helps us stay ahead of any concerns and ensure your child’s developing smile stays on the right track.
Why Trust Altoona Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry?
We believe early orthodontic evaluation is one of the most valuable ways to support your child’s long-term dental health. Our approach is gentle and informative, giving children a chance to understand their developing smile while we look for early signs of orthodontic needs. We aim to make the process relaxed and reassuring, never rushed or overwhelming.
Our team carefully evaluates jaw growth, tooth position, and bite patterns to determine the best path forward. We take time to explain what we see and whether any future steps might be needed. If we believe early treatment could help prevent more complex issues later on, we’ll walk you through the options clearly. Even when treatment isn’t necessary, these assessments allow us to track development with confidence and care. Our goal is to help your child achieve proper alignment, improved function, and a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Benefits of Orthodontic Assessment
- Identifies Problems Early
Early assessments help us detect issues like crowding, bite misalignment, or jaw discrepancies before they worsen. This allows us to create a plan that may reduce the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later. - Guides Proper Growth and Development
By monitoring how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing, we can intervene when it’s most effective. This guidance can help ensure proper spacing and alignment as permanent teeth emerge. - Improves Long-Term Function and Comfort
Correcting orthodontic issues at the right time can improve chewing, speaking, and even breathing. A well-aligned bite also reduces the risk of uneven wear or jaw discomfort as your child grows.
Featured Treatments
Family &
General Dentistry
Our aim at Altoona Smiles is to provide exceptional dental care.
Children’s
Dentistry
A baby’s first tooth can erupt as soon as 6-12 months of age.
Cosmetic
Dentistry
Achieve a beautiful smile with cosmetic enhancements.
Emergency
Dentistry
Altoona Smiles offers same-day appointments.
Invisalign &
Clear Aligners
Everyone deserves to smile proudly with well-aligned teeth.
Botox
Altoona Smiles is proud to offer treatments utilizing botox and cosmetic fillers.