As Ridgefield’s very own Board Certified Orthodontist, with three daughters in the Ridgefield public schools, I often get asked questions from fellow parents. It’s not uncommon for me to do a “curbside consult” at a softball game, a dance recital, or neighborhood barbeque! Not only do parents want to share their own orthodontic experiences with me, but the most common question I get is, “When should I take my child to see you?”
I recommend that children get an initial consultation at our office by seven to eight years old. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) guidelines explain that during this age, the first permanent teeth are erupting, negative growth patterns (such as underbites and crossbites) can be identified, and significant orthodontic problems can be prevented early on.
While seven-year-olds are too young for full braces, this complimentary evaluation for second and third graders is meant to identify growth issues and prevent severe orthodontic complications from developing. Our office customizes treatment to the individual needs of the patients. Some examples of problems that we address are crowding, open bite, overbite, severe protrusion, or a narrow palate.
During your initial new patient exam, we will determine a long-term treatment plan to create a beautiful and healthy smile for your child. Patients walk away with peace of mind and answers to their questions about whether early intervention is warranted. So, while I’m always happy to do a “curbside consult” when I’m out and about in Ridgefield, the most thorough way to identify potential issues is to call our office at (203) 431-4466 to schedule a complimentary consultation at our convenient Ridgefield location. Click here to find out more about the early signs and habits that may indicate the need for an early orthodontic examination.
About Dr. Blaine Langberg
Dr. Blaine Langberg is the only Board-Certified Orthodontist in the Ridgefield, Danbury, Redding, Georgetown, North, and South Salem areas. Dr. Langberg was trained at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. He received his Doctor of Medical Dentistry and remained at Harvard to complete his Master of Medical Science and specialty training in Orthodontics. He is a faculty member at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and is also a member of the Attending Faculty at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Dr. Langberg is currently a member of the Harvard Society for the Advancement of Orthodontics, the American Dental Association, the Greater Danbury Dental Society, and the American Association of Orthodontists.