for children

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. Dr. Steckel will evaluate any necessary x-rays and photos to determine when would be the best time to begin treatment.

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, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing with the patient's help. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.

To view "Common Problems to Watch out for in 7 year olds", a document that shows common developmental problems to look out for, click the link below to go to AAO site and download the adobe file: http://www.braces.org/.