Parents often have many questions about orthodontic treatment for their children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic assessment by the age of 7.

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as “Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment,” can help determine and manage potential problems early before they develop into severe dental issues. Early orthodontic treatment is done while a child’s teeth and jaws are still developing. At this time, certain orthodontic conditions are easier to correct.

Though early treatment does not apply to all orthodontic issues, it can help in some cases. These include crossbites, underbites, protruding front teeth, thumb/pacifier sucking (that affects the teeth and jaw growth), excessively spaced teeth, and extra or missing teeth.

The sooner your child receives treatment the higher the possibility of improving the growth of your child’s facial and jaw bones. As a result this can prevent any potential problems in the future. The main goal of early treatment is to interrupt the developing orthodontic problem, remove the cause, guide the growth of the jaw and facial bones and make adequate room for permanent teeth.

With early treatment, our orthodontists can detect problems before they develop or become worse. Contact or visit us at our offices in Markham, Stouffville and Richmond Hill for early orthodontic services.