For Children

It is best for children to be evaluated by the orthodontist at 7 years old.  At this age, the first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated.  The orthodontist can determine if treatment is needed and when is the best time to begin.  When treatment is started early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth.”Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.