Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an ideal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic concerns or by the age of 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but an examination can determine the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. If orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Hunt, along with your general dentist, can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

• Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
• Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for unerupted teeth
• Reducing the need for tooth removal
• Reducing treatment time with braces