Though we can straighten teeth at any age, there is an optimal time to begin ensuring the best result in the least amount of time and expense. Since everyone’s orthodontic problem is different, the “best time” varies. Some conditions are best treated around ages 7 or 8, others around 11 or 12. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation around age 7 (when the front 4 adult teeth start to erupt). Interceptive and preventive treatment is sometimes best done at this age, but frequently the patient is placed under supervision at 6-12 month intervals. These visits are important so treatment can start at the most beneficial time. Treating children during their growth allows us to achieve results not possible when face and jawbones are fully developed. This early treatment can simplify or reduce additional treatment.

At age 7, the adult teeth start to erupt, establishing the bite. During this time, we can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth and jaw relationships. The eruption of adult teeth can indicate the presence of overbites, open bites, crowding, and gummy smiles. Some of these conditions greatly benefit from interceptive treatment. Timely screening allows treatment to begin at the most beneficial time for each patient.

Early evaluation provides timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing and/or reducing serious problems later. Many progressive treatments are available for patients 6 to 11 years old that provide significant benefits, especially in jaw irregularities. Treating children during their growth allows us to achieve results not possible when face and jaw bones are fully developed. This early treatment can simplify or reduce additional treatment.

Some goals of interceptive treatment include:

· guiding jaw growth
· regulating the width of the upper and lower jaws
· guiding permanent teeth into their correct positions
· lowering the risk of trauma (accidents) to protruding teeth
· correcting harmful oral habits such as thumb- or finger-sucking
· correcting abnormal swallowing or speech problems
· improving personal appearance and self-esteem
· reducing or simplifying later treatment
· reducing the likelihood of impacted (stuck) teeth
· preserving and/or gaining space for erupting permanent teeth

Interceptive treatment is typically reserved for moderate to severe orthodontic problems. Approximately 15% to 20% of patients can benefit from this treatment. Usually, when a patient has a problem severe enough for interceptive treatment, a 2nd phase of treatment is required around age 11 or 12. Had early treatment not been performed, it would be more difficult, if not impossible, to correct their problem later.