When To Start Treatment

Early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment.

Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and/or make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Early treatment may also achieve results that are not possible once the face and jaws have stopped growing.

In most cases, orthodontic treatment is commenced as soon as the last baby tooth has been shed. This usually occurs in the early teens. In some cases, it is an advantage to start just before the last baby teeth are shed.

In the past, orthodontic treatment was generally restricted to children. However, the basic process involved in moving teeth is the same at any age and orthodontic treatment is also successful for adults.
Because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing, some severe malocclusions cannot be corrected with braces alone. In such cases, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery can achieve dramatic improvements.

If you think you have an orthodontic problem, the best time to see an orthodontist is now