Much debate lives among orthodontic professionals between early orthodontic treatment (ages 7 to 9) and traditional orthodontic intervention (11+ years old). The American Association of Orthodontists endorses that all youngsters should be evaluated by a dentist or orthodontist at the age of seven.
The early phase (Phase 1) begins around age 8 or 9. This phase involves straightening the front permanent teeth and creating space for the remaining permanent teeth that erupt at age 12. This reduces the future likelihood of extracting permanent teeth. In addition, if there is a jaw-growth problem, or bite problem such as overbite or underbite, correction is also done during Phase 1.
Your child may need to be assessed even earlier than seven years old if your family dentist recommends an orthodontic evaluation. Thumb sucking, pacifier, tongue thrust and mouth-breathing are habits that may also need early intervention. Early orthodontic treatment may be needed to aid in speech therapy.
The following early signs may be helpful to detect orthodontic problems in your child:
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