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It's best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to
advise if orthodontic treatment is required and it is the best
time for that patient to be treated. The first permanent molars
and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites,
crowding, and other problems can be evaluated.
We strive to treat our patients in one phase of treatment, but
when early treatment is beneficial, the orthodontist can guide
the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early
treatment can help us regulate the width of the upper and lower
dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need
for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of
impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate
abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early
treatment, when used appropriately, can simplify later
treatment.
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