Early Treatment
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Dr. Lazzara feels that the ideal time for most patients to begin orthodontic treatment is around age 12, as the last baby teeth are being lost. While the American Association or Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7, most patients do not need treatment at this age. However, it is still important for all young patients to undergo an orthodontic evaluation between ages 7 and 8 in order to identify the relatively small group of patients who need early treatment.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation allows Dr. Lazzara an opportunity to detect developing problems and also to collect baseline records in order to effectively monitor your child's growth and development until treatment may be necessary. In cases where early intervention in necessary (usually crossbites), treatment guides growth and development, preventing more serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Lazzara carefully monitors growth and development in order to begin treatment at the appropriate time. Pre-orthodontic screening and monitoring appointments are provided as a courtesy to our patients and referring doctors and are typically free.