At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age – but most problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age, before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. It is recommended an orthodontic screening at age7-8.

How long will the treatment last?
It varies for each patient – depending on how much your jaw needs to change and how far your teeth must move. Typically, braces need to be on for anywhere from a few months to two years or so. We’re committed to making your treatment as swift and effective as possible.

How can I tell if my child needs orthodontic treatment?
It is usually difficult to know if your child will need orthodontic treatment until your child is 7-8 and their permanent teeth start to come in. We recommend that you bring your child to our office when your child is 7 years old to evaluate whether treatment will be needed. Generally, the dentist will evaluate your child, and if your child needs treatment, the dentist will take corrective action to avoid costly and uncomfortable treatment later on.

What are the early symptoms of orthodontic problems and how can I look for them?
It is most important to examine your child's teeth as the permanent teeth grow in. Although children mature at different rates, there are some averages for permanent tooth arrival. It is always better to consult a professional. Still, there are some warning signs that you can look for to help evaluate whether your child needs orthodontic treatment. First ask your child to open their mouth, and let you look at their teeth. Are all of their teeth straight? Do any of the teeth slant to the side? Are there any gaps between your child's teeth? Do any of your child's teeth overlap? If you see any signs of crooked teeth, gaps between your child's teeth or overlapping teeth, your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Next ask your child to bite down. Does the center of the front top teeth line up with the center of the front bottom teeth? Do your child's top teeth protrude out the front of their mouth? Does your child have bucked teeth? Do the top front teeth cover more than 25% of the bottom teeth? Are any of the top teeth behind the bottom teeth? Do the teeth come together smoothly, or are there any gaps? If your child's teeth do not come together smoothly, or if any of your child's teeth do not lining up properly your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Now look at the alignment of your child's jaw. Do all of the teeth come together smoothly, or does your child's jaw shift off center when your child clenches their teeth together? If you see any misalignment or shifting of your child's jaw, your child may need orthodontic treatment.

If you see any of the above symptoms, or if you are not sure, bring your child in for orthodontic treatment. It's best not to wait hoping that the problems will go away.