Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an orthodontic evaluation take place at age 7 or sooner if your child’s regular dentist recommends it. This early evaluation can diagnose problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth as well as correct bad habits that can leave permanent teeth in less than ideal positions. There are many treatment options that can, if done early, prevent worsening of some conditions and provide opportunities for intervention during the growth stages that allow results not possible once face and jaw growth are completed. Sometimes this intervention is Phase 1 braces or an interceptive appliance. An early orthodontic evaluation allows more options for more ideal corrections of the malocclusion.