It's best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if
orthodontic treatment is required and 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. 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, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce
likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking
and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other
words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
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