Pre Braces Child/Teen

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial consultation no later than age 7. By the second grade a sufficient amount of a child’s permanent teeth have erupted and enough jaw growth has occurred that problems can be identified and corrected. The importance of early detection and correction is that problems are easier to correct in a growing child. If treatment is delayed it may require extractions or surgery to achieve the same result. With the use of orthodontic appliances we are able to correct some of the following:

	Guide the growth of the young jaw bones to create a better environment for the new emerging permanent teeth Guide incoming teeth into optimal positions Regulate the width of the jaws
	Lower the risk of trauma to prominent front teeth Correct harmful oral habits Reduce the likelihood of teeth becoming stuck or impacted under the gums due to overcrowding
	Preserve or gain space for permanent teeth Improve appearance and self-esteem Prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated