Early Treatment

Starting orthodontic treatment is a very exciting time in a child or adult’s life.

The experience brims with the possibility and excitement of a transformed smile and healthy bite. How do you know when it is the right time to begin this journey? Why do some children start treatment while they still have baby teeth while others wait to begin treatment when all of the adult teeth have come in?

Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense.

By examining a child early, we are able to recognize potential problems early and correct them before they become more serious. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. Age 7 is not arbitrary. By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. At this age, our doctors can get a clear picture of the dental and jaw development and identify if a problem exists.

Early evaluation provides timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment.

Timing is key! Prudent intervention, when necessary, guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When early orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.During your child’s initial evaluation, Drs. Freeman, Caro & Lands will first determine if there are any problems that need to be addressed. The most common are crowding, crossbites or overbites. It is probable that early treatment is not necessary at the time. While early intervention or a two phase orthodontic approach can be effective, Our doctors use it selectively. They follow the science and put your child’s interests first, only recommending early intervention- or any other treatment- when it is the best choice, at the right time.

Straight teeth are healthier teeth.

Having straight teeth with a proper bite minimizes your chances of developing cavities, uneven wear, fractures, gum problems and jaw joint problems. Orthodontic treatment is an excellent step toward achieving and maintaining optimal dental health. At Freeman Caro Lands Orthodontics, every patient also receives personalized care from our doctors. 

If you would like more information about early interceptive orthodontic care, please call us at 416.787.3170 or use our online appointment request form.