Starting Treatment Early
Between the ages of 11 and 15 (the adolescent years) is the most common time for orthodontic treatment, and for good reasons. By 12, most if not all of the permanent teeth have erupted and crooked teeth, gaps and bites problems can easily be diagnosed. When a child between the ages of 7-10 has crooked teeth, crowded teeth, overbite, underbite, extra teeth, jaw disorders or incorrect jaw position an early treatment plan may be presented.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child receive their first complimentary orthodontic screening by the age 7. By starting treatment early, we are able to recognize potential problems early and correct them before they become the worst they can. It is much easier when it's least tender for younger children whose bones are softer and easier to manipulate.
Dr. Feller and Dr. Johnson have found that early interceptive orthodontic treatment is beneficial for the overall desired result. Early orthodontic treatment varies between patients but provides more room for crowded, erupting teeth; preserve space for unerupted teeth; create facial symmetry through manipulating jaw growth; reduce the possibility of tooth extraction; and reduces overall treatment time in a full set of braces once all the teeth are erupted.