Why Early Orthodontic Exams Matter
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early timeline may seem surprising, but it's critical for catching potential issues like impacted maxillary canines before they become more complicated.
The maxillary canines, often referred to as "eyeteeth," are the cornerstone of a balanced and functional smile. However, their eruption pathway can sometimes be disrupted, causing them to become impacted (stuck in the bone or gums). This can lead to alignment issues, gum health concerns, and even require surgical intervention later.
How Early Exams Help Identify Impacted Canines
An orthodontist uses tools like panoramic X-rays to assess the development of your child’s teeth. By age 7 or 8, permanent canines should be forming and positioned in their early eruption pathway. If there are signs of crowding or displacement, an orthodontist may recommend a simple and effective solution: removing the baby canines.
The Power of Early Baby Canine Extraction
When baby canines are extracted early, it gives the permanent canines more space to follow their natural eruption pathway. This straightforward intervention can:
Encourage proper alignment of permanent canines.
Reduce the likelihood of impaction.
Minimize the need for complex treatments, like braces or surgery, in the future.
In many cases, this small step is enough to allow the permanent canines to emerge correctly without further orthodontic treatment.
Real Results: Before and After X-Ray
Below, you’ll see a real-life example of how early intervention can make a difference. The first panoramic X-ray shows a child with a blocked eruption pathway for the permanent canines. After the baby canines were removed, the second X-ray reveals the improved eruption trajectory of the permanent canines.
Before Baby Canine Extraction:
The permanent canines (highlighted in Pink) are erupting towards the front teeth. The baby canines (highlighted in green) are removed to help the eruption pathway.
After Baby Canine Extraction (12 months):
1 year after baby canine extraction and the permanent canines have improved their eruption and came in nice and straight with no orthodontic treatment needed!
These images clearly demonstrate how proactive evaluation can transform a potential problem into a smooth, natural eruption process.
Schedule an Early Exam Today!
At Meyer Orthodontics, we’re passionate about creating healthy, beautiful smiles. An early free orthodontic exam can make a big difference in your child’s oral health. Catching issues like impacted canines early helps us recommend simple solutions that can save you time, stress, and money later on.
Schedule your free exam today and give your child the best chance for a healthy smile!
