5 reasons why age 7 is the appropriate time for a child's orthodontic screening:
- The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7.
- The back teeth establish the proper bite when the first molars erupt. At that time, one can evaluate antorior-posterior and transeverse relationships of the occlusion, as well as discover any functional shifts.
- Incisors have begun to erupt and problems can be detected such as crowding habits, deep bites, open bites, and some facial assymetries.
- For some, a timely screening will lead to sig nificant treatment benfits; for most, the pricipal immediate benefit is a parents peace of mind.
- The dentist who makes timely referrals is rightly regardled as informed, caring and concened for the toal well being of the patient.
