EARLY TREATMENT

Am I too Young?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows the doctor to evaluate a child’s teeth, bone structure and growth. At age 7, many potential growth problems are detectable and developing bite concerns can be assessed. Most children at this age will not need any orthodontic treatment. We will place the patient on a recall plan to allow us to monitor changes to the patient and catch any developing problems. For other patients early treatment is suggested for the following:

  • Influence jaw growth in a positive manner
  • Improve tooth eruption patterns
  • Lower risk of trauma to protruded upper incisors
  • Correct damaging oral habits
  • Improve aesthetics & self-esteem
  • Simplify and/or shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics
  • Reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
  • Improve some speech problems
  • Preserve or gain space for erupting permanent teeth
  • Harmonize widths of the dental arches.