Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner:

Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.

While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect.

Often, the orthodontist will identify a potential problem but recommend monitoring the child's growth and development, and then beginning treatment at the right time for your child.

Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later stage shorter and less complicated.

In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that wouldn't be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.

Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to:

•  guide growth
•  lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
•  correct harmful oral habits
•  improve appearance
•  improve the way the lips meet

Through early orthodontic screenings, you'll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.