For Children

What age should I bring my child to the Orthodontist?

It is recommended by the Canadian and American Association of Orthodontists that every child visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child's physician. The orthodontist can give advice regarding orthodontic treatment needs and timing. Although some young patients require early orthodontic intervention, most patients at this age will be monitored until they are at the best age to initiate treatment.

What can the Orthodontist do before all the adult teeth have erupted?

To achieve the most successful result some orthodontic concerns are best treated early. Early orthodontic treatment, often called Phase 1, refers to treatment that is initiated before the eruption of all of the permanent (adult) teeth. Phase 1 treatment can begin as early as age 5 and is directed at correcting certain challenging orthodontic problems including: crosssbites, excessive flaring of the front teeth, deep overbite, underbites, premature loss of primary teeth, dental crowding, and certain developmental or jaw related growth concerns.

Phase 1: Early Orthodontic treatment to improve the bite

The goal of early orthodontic treatment is to improve the relationship of the upper and lower jaws and encourage the most favourable eruption of the permanent teeth. Young children are growing rapidly and can often benefit significantly from early treatment.

Phase 2: Braces to achieve a lifetime of beautiful smiles

Although significant bite improvements can occur during Phase 1 treatment, a second phase of treatment using braces is usually required to complete the bite correction and align the permanent teeth. This second phase of treatment occurs after the eruption of all the permanent teeth (age 12 to 14).

For more information please see the Canadian Association of Orthodontists Website: http://cao-aco.org/MEDIA/FAQ.html