It's best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required at that time and if not continue to monitor your child on a free yearly basis to see when the right time is to start treatment to achieve the best result possible. 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.

We encourage you to schedule a free initial consultation today with Dr. Hildebrand. Our orthodontic office is located in Arlington, Texas and we can easily be reached at (817) 468-4141. We look forward to working with you!

Click here to read an article from the American Association of Orthodontists about early treatment.