Early Orthodontics (For Children)

First orthodontic check-up

It is recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation when any orthodontic problem is noticed, or by age 7. Around this age, children usually have a mix of primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth.

Understanding early evaluations

If your child is younger than 7 and you notice something that looks “off,” you don’t have to wait until they turn 7 or until your dentist suggests it. Take your child to an orthodontist as soon as you spot a concern—no matter their age.

Two-Phase Orthodontics (Early + Comprehensive Treatment)

After completing early treatment, we begin comprehensive orthodontics.

Adult Orthodontics

At the present time, 1 in 4 orthodontic patients is an adult:

Leaving misaligned teeth untreated can lead to problems such as excessive wear, cavities, gum disease, and chewing difficulties. Orthodontic treatment for adults improves the bite and lowers the risk of developing these dental concerns in the future.

How is adult orthodontics different from children’s treatment?

The main difference is that adults have finished growing. Because of this, treatment often takes longer due to greater bone density and maturity. Other factors—such as medications, habits like smoking, clenching or grinding teeth, and tongue thrust—can also influence treatment outcomes.

Some adults may also experience bone support issues, which require close monitoring of the supporting structures around the teeth. Collaboration with periodontists is often necessary in these cases. Additionally, some patients may have lost permanent teeth early and need to work with a prosthodontist or restorative dentist to address spacing or aesthetic concerns.

Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics (orthognathic surgery) is a corrective procedure performed on the jaws to resolve skeletal issues that affect the ability to bite, chew, and speak.

Do I need orthognathic surgery?

Surgical orthodontics may be recommended if the upper or lower jaws—the bones that support the teeth—are misaligned. This can cause the upper and lower teeth not to fit together properly, making it difficult to bite, chew, or speak. Your orthodontist will work closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to bring the jaws and teeth into proper alignment.

What comes first, surgery or orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment usually begins before orthognathic surgery. The primary goal is to align the teeth so they will fit together correctly after surgery. Once the surgical procedure is completed, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune the final positions of the teeth, ensuring optimal function. Throughout the process, plaster models of the mouth are taken to monitor progress and simulate the planned surgery.