Early Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur either at the first sign of bite problems or no later than age 7.

There are advantages with regard to compliance during the early treatment ages. This advantage may be crucial to successful treatment of severe overbites and underbites. Other treatment during this period involves habit breaking treatment, maintenance of space with early tooth loss and correction of crossbites.

Of course that at this tender age orthodontic treatment may not be necessary. The value of such early evaluation, however, is that it can anticipate what will be the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Although an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment that will vary from person to person, from bite to bite.  Beginning treatment at the time Dr. Kast suggests ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense.