Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist no later than age 7. In some cases the severity of the problem can be reduced by an early phase of treatment. Dr. Girardot prefers to see children for an initial examination at approximately age 6. However, this varies considerably from one child to another. Indeed, we have widened the upper jaw in children as young as 4 years old.

Typically, Dr. G does not recommend any treatment at this early age; however, it is best to be at the forefront of any disharmony. We do not want to miss the opportunity to confront a problem that can be solved at an early age. It is very rare that a child “grows out” of an orthodontic problem.

Usually Dr. G will recommend we place the child in “recall/observation”, this simply means we see the child once or twice a year so Dr. G can monitor such things as growth, tooth eruption, and functional problems. The idea is to keep things in check until the problems can be dealt with all at once. There is no charge for recall/observe appointments.