What is the right age for a consultation?
There is no ideal age for your first visit to an orthodontist. Ask for a consultation as soon as a growth problem is found by a dentist or suspected by parents, ideally no later than age 7.
Early detection, while the primary teeth are in place and the face and jaw are still growing, will make it possible for Dr. Lapointe to let you know whether a first stage of treatment is required.
WHAT DO I NEED TO CONSULT AN ORTHODONTIST?
DAsk for a consultation following a recommendation from your dentist.
CHowever, no referral is necessary to consult a specialist.
When a first stage of treatment (also called phase I treatment or dentofacial orthopedics) is required, its goal is to prevent unnecessary worsening of your child’s problem. Treatment involves guiding the growth of the jaw so that the permanent teeth can be better positioned as they come in. As well, a difference in position between the upper and lower jaw can be reduced so that the teeth come together more harmoniously (improved occlusion).
This first phase of treatment is generally completed within 8 to 12 months.
Examples of appliances used to guide growth in phase I treatment:
Palatal expansion
Growth of the lower jaw
