The most common age for orthodontic treatment is during the ages of 11 and 17. By age 12, most if not all of our permanent teeth have erupted and are in place. Crooked teeth, gaps between our teeth and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems rarely correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment for their children.
Why is the adolescent growth spurt so important in orthodontics?
This is a time when much of the growth of the face occurs. Treatment during this period provides an opportunity to favorably influence that facial profile in a growing child. Once growth of the facial bones is complete, correction of jaw discrepancies usually requires jaw surgery. For this reason, timely treatment may save considerable time and money.
What is the psychological impact of orthodontic therapy?
Treatment may reduce appearance-consciousness during the critical developmental years. Appearance can have an effect on popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style, and self-image. Also, orthodontic therapy may lessen the likelihood that a child will be picked on by other children.