FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child see an orthodontist? approximately AGE 7

• The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that by age 7, an orthodontic evaluation should be performed. Early detection and early corrective action can prevent more difficult treatment later.

What are we looking for at age 7 or younger?

• Severe crowding of baby teeth or newly erupting permanent teeth
• Skeletal discrepancy or 'mismatch of growing upper and lower jaws'
• Crossbite or 'mismatch of upper and lower teeth'
• Habits: thumb- or finger-sucking, tongue thrusting

Why is age 7 an ideal time for screening by an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7 for several reasons.

• The presence of permanent incisors (front teeth) and first molars allow the orthodontist to evaluate skeletal and occlusal (bite) relationships as well as future and present crowding.
• Habit patterns (fingers or thumb), facial asymmetries, and fracture prone incisors are generally apparent at age 7
• A 7 year old has the available growth that may be critical to an ideal treatment result.

Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.

What is PHASE I treatment?

• Phase I treatment is early correction of a developing orthodontic problem
• Phase I GOALS include:
  • making room for permanent teeth
  • promoting skeletal development in areas that are lacking
  • eliminate any bad habits that may have a harmful effect on the developing and erupting permanent teeth
• Expanders, headgear, lower lip bumpers and other orthodontic appliances are most frequently used in Phase I treatment