Orthodontic Services for Children
It's best for the orthodontist to see children around age 7 to advise if early orthodontic treatment is required. Sometimes this 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 skeletal or dental problems can be evaluated. When early treatment is recommended, the orthodontist can help guide the growth of the jaw and incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower jaws in order to 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.
Not all children need early treatment and would be better treated when the last baby teeth are still present or once all the permanent teeth have started to erupt into the mouth. Orthodontic consultations are meant for any age (after age 7) and timing of treatment will be recommended based on the need of the child.
