It's best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7. We can then advise if orthodontic treatment is required and determine when the best time would be 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. Other benefits of early treatment include:

• Ability to regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches
• Gaining of space for permanent teeth
• Potential to avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions
• Reduced likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
• Correction of thumb-sucking and/or other oral habits
• Elimination of abnormal swallowing or speech problems

In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.