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Types of Treatment
There is no age limit to receiving orthodontic treatment. We have successfully treated patients ranging from 5 to 75 years of age.
However, there are certain aspects of treatment that are different in children and adults.
Treatment for Children
Young Children
Early (interceptive) treatment may be needed in young children to correct a specific problem that is
interfering with the normal growth and development of the teeth and jaws. Prudent intervention guides
growth and development preventing or lessening serious problems later.
Some problems, such as a crossbite, can be treated early with an orthodontic appliance and require no
additional treatment later. Other problems, such as severely protruding teeth or severe crowding may
benefit from an early stage of treatment but will require full braces later when most or all of the adult
teeth have erupted.
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic examination occur at
the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later then age 7. At this early age it may not be necessary
to start treatment but an examination can determine if treatment is needed later.
Adolescents
It is more common for children to be treated orthodontically in one stage during the pre- teen or early teen years.
Full braces are used, sometimes in conjunction with space gaining appliances or functional appliances, to move teeth
into the proper position and to correct problems with the bite. This is often the best time to begin comprehensive
treatment as the jaws are growing rapidly and most or all of the adult teeth are present for straightening.
There are many factors entering into the decision of when to start treatment. An early orthodontic examination gives the
orthodontist the opportunity to make the most appropriate decision.