What is the "Right Age" for orthodontic treatment?

     Almost any age!!!

     Orthodontics now focuses on patients of all ages.  Early treatment techniques provide significant benefits, especially in jaw irregularities in 6-11 year olds.  Treatment during these growth stages may prevent many conditions from getting worse and achieve results that are not possible after the growth is completed.

     Dr. Lilley may request early treatment of a child to take advantage of the child's continued jaw growth.  The growth can be used to guide the bite into proper alignment which will lessen the total treatment time in braces.  Early treatment can also minimize the need for extraction of permanent teeth.

     Full orthodontic treatment with braces generally begins around age 11-13 when most permanent teeth are in place.  Treatment varies between 1-3 years depending on age, severity of the case, patient growth, and participation.  Patient cooperation is the key ingredient.

     Many more adults are taking advantage of less noticeable braces (clear), with adults making up nearly 35% of our orthodontic patients.  It is never to late for a beautiful smile!!!