As a general rule, an early consultation visit to the orthodontist is the key for the successful treatment of the problem in terms of functionality, aesthetics and treatment time.
Early diagnosis of the orthodontic problem does not necessarily mean the immediate beginning of an orthodontic intervention. The orthodontist will decide the right moment for the beginning of the treatment by taking into consideration the best method and the shortest timeframe. Treatment in a short timeframe, aiming always to achieve the best orthodontic result, is of course the best solution both for the child and the parents.
Orthodontic problems in children are classified in two main categories.
Skeletal orthodontic problems involve irregularities of the jaws and the facial bones while dental orthodontic problems include mostly the position of the teeth across the dental arches.
Skeletal orthodontic problems should be treated as soon as possible and at the appropriate age in order to take advantage of the child’s growth.
Dental orthodontic problems, due to their variety, do not come under a general rule concerning their treatment. Parents should know that starting orthodontic treatment only after all permanent teeth have erupted is completely wrong.
