At what age should I bring my child to see Dr. Ghaffari?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be seen by the age of 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and if it is the best time for that patient to be treated. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated. However, our practice philosophy is to only treat children when it is absolutely necessary for a healthy bite.
When treatment is begun early, Dr. Ghaffari can guide the growth of the jaws and incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.