The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic exam by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required.

Age 7 is a good time for children to be treated. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and cross bites, crowding, and other problems can be diagnosed. If treatment is required early, Dr Waters can guide the growth of the jaw and incoming permanent teeth.

Early treatment can...

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
• Eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems

In other words,
early treatment can simplify later treatment.