About Orthodontics

Early Treatment | Phase II Treatment | Adult Treatment | Orthodontic Dictionary

Early Interceptive Treatment or Phase I Treatment

While orthodontists can improve smiles at any age, there is usually a best age to begin treatment in order to achieve maximum improvement with the minimum amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child's first visit to an orthodontist take place by age 7, or earlier if an orthodontic problem is detected. Depending on the type of problem, this first visit could take place as early as age two or three.

Frequently, malocclusions are present behind seemingly acceptable smiles. And while treatment may not be started until years later, early examination allows Dr.Cheng to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment.

In some cases, early treatment may be initiated to prevent more serious problems from developing. This early intervention may often make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Your dentist who identifies these problems early is concerned about the total well being of their patients and is caring and well informed.