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When Should My Child Get
an Orthodontic Evaluation?

Orthodontists aim to prevent and treat irregularities in the jaw and misalignment of the teeth that are the result of genetics or develop in accordance with a child’s habits. The best way to achieve these goals is to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist as early as age seven; however, children with noticeable facial irregularities may benefit from preventive orthodontic treatment several years earlier.

When should my child get an orthodontic evaluation? in Atlanta & Suwanee, Georgia

Orthodontists are highly trained to notice minute problems with emerging teeth and jaw growth – even if a mixture of baby teeth and permanent teeth are present. While the untrained eye might fail to spot these irregularities, an orthodontic check-up allows for early detection of problems and development of efficient treatment plans.

Some of the key signs that an orthodontic problem is present are as follows:

  • Difficulty chewing and biting
  • Jaws that click, shift or make noise as they move
  • Asymmetry in the face due to disproportionate jaws
  • Finger and thumb sucking
  • Bite misalignment (arches of teeth that do not meet properly)

Common Orthodontic Problems for Children

Children often experience overcrowding, jaw growth irregularities, protruding teeth and teeth that are too widely spaced. While some problems are inherited, the main causes of acquired orthodontic irregularities are:

  • Inadequate nutrition or dental hygiene problems
  • Medical problems, such as birth defects
  • Habits such as thumb or finger sucking
  • Breathing through the mouth
  • Earlier or later loss of baby teeth than is considered normal

    • How Can an Orthodontist Help my Child?

    The orthodontist may take one of several approaches when dealing with children. In some cases, malocclusions or irregularities are carefully monitored and are addressed at a later date. The ideal time to initiate treatment varies with each individual child and is based on their unique diagnosis.

    Early orthodontic treatment is beneficial to reduce the amount and duration of later treatment, preventing more complex conditions from occurring. Through early intervention, the orthodontist is able to correct habits that lead to acquired irregularities, increase the confidence of the child, guide the growth of the jawbone, and decrease the risk of injury to protruding teeth.

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    in Atlanta and Suwanee

    Milestone Dentistry review from
    Milestone Dentistry took over my Dentist of 30 years. I was pleasantly surprised by their efficiency and superior quality. Of course my Dentist, Dr. Robert Israel, would only choose the best.
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Amber M.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Amber M.
    Where do I start!? Everyone is so nice and very thorough! You will not be disappointed! Ann Marie my hygienist is the best in Atlanta hands down!! Dr. Huynh was very gentle and answered all my questions! 😁
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Brandon K.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Brandon K.
    Definitely recommend milestone! I hate the dentist to the point of avoiding them, until I knocked my crown off the week of July 4th. Milestone got me in THE SAME DAY to put a temp crown on and it was perfect, and recently went to have the permanent put on and I am very pleased.
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Felicia M.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Felicia M.
    It seems unnatural to say that I enjoyed my time at the dentist...but it’s true. I left my last dentist’s office because the dentist himself was dismissive of some pain that I was having. I have to say that every step of the process, from intake to x rays to cleaning and finally to dental consultation was wonderful. The entire staff was friendly. The office was spacious and equipped beautifully. Ann Marie and Dr. Huynh were a dream team! And of course Mary at the front desk takes care of your appointments and your estimates with ease. I can’t recommend this place enough!
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Randolph F.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Randolph F.
    The entire Staff are professional, extremely courteous and highly competent individuals!!I would highly recommend this practice to every and anyone !!
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Cynthia B.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Cynthia B.
    I am TERRIFIED of the dentist. I was in need of work, as reluctant as I was,I walked into Milestone. I was greeted by Mary Ra. I explained my fear, she listened, she put me at ease..introduced me to my "new friends" as she puts it before I made my appointment.It really help relieve some of my anxiety. I love love this office! AnnMarie took her time, provided me with music and a warm blanket. Cleaning was quick and painless. I would love to give this office 5k stars.
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Danyale S.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Danyale S.
    The staff and Dentist were extremely informative and caring when I had to get my wisdom tooth removed. This was my first visit with Dr. Huynh and he answered every question and concern that I had with extreme understanding and care during the procedure and after.
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    M OI

    Milestone Dentistry review from M OI
    Great service! Very knowledgeable! Love that the organization caters to Special Needs young adults! Way to Go Team!
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Ellie V.

    Milestone Dentistry review from Ellie V.
    I can't sing enough praises of Dr. Jeffrey Wakefield. This man has a gift, super knowledgeable and talented. I've had 2 oral surgeries in 2 months with him and both experiences have been phenomenal. Today was my first time ever being put to sleep for a procedure and I was a bit nervous at first but the staff did a great job of explaining everything and answering any questions. The staff is very friendly, and while professional, they can still cut and take jokes! Lol. Dr. Wakefield is a joker himself. The office is always clean and organized. You have free bottled water and a machine that grounds coffee beans for multiple coffee options in the lobby. I highly recommend this place.
    review site ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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    Dr. Freddie Wakefield Jr.
    A standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables us to provide the quality dental services our patients deserve.

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