When is the best time for treatment?

Although orthodontic treatment can be completed at any point in an individual's lifetime, the best time to pursue treatment is typically during the adolescent growth spurt. This growth period varies from case to case. Girls in general, mature earlier and faster, so timing in their cases is more critical. The average starting age for girls is between 9 and 11 years. Boys will typically start between ages 10 and 12. These are general guidelines and as always there are "exceptions to the rule." Some cases require earlier intervention. Others may have slow erupting teeth which may require starting later. Our recommendation is to see a patient prior to the "typical" starting age (approximately age 8 for girls and age 9 for boys). This allows us to complete a growth study if the patient is not ready to start. If the patient is ready to start, we will inform the parents. Occasionally, the dentist will see something in the bite which he or she may believe requires more immediate action. If this is the case, we would be happy to see the patient as soon as possible to evaluate.

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