What age should my child have an orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommend an orthodontic screening for children by seven years of age. By age 7 the teeth and jaws have developed enough that the orthodontist can tell if there will be any serious bite problems in the future. Most children do not need treatment at this age but it gives the parents and the orthodontist time to watch the development of the jaw and decide on the best mode of treatment. This allows you to plan ahead and prevent any serious issues.
Why is it important to have orthodontic treatment at a young age?
Research has shown that serious orthodontic problems can be more easily corrected when the patient skelton is still growing and flexible. By correcting orthodontic issues at a young age we can make space in the mouth for the eruption of the permanent teeth so that they grow in straight.