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Q: What is the correct age for the first orthodontic screening? A: The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children aged 7 should be evaluated by an orthodontist. Whilst many are not ready for treatment at this time, there are a handful of problems which may be present which could necessitate what is called preliminary or first stage treatment. Subtle problems related to the growth of the jaws and emerging teeth, even though baby teeth are still present, may be identified. • While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. • A check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine or the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development. This will allow for treatment for your child to be initiated at the most appropriate time. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment which may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing. If your child is older than 7, it’s certainly not too late for a check-up. Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, the orthodontist’s goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time. |
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Request an appointment  Dr Mark Wertheimer 011 783 7171   |
