It's
best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic
treatment is required and 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. When treatment
is begun 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. |