For Children
It's best for Dr. McCaskey to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and if so, to evaluate the best timing for treatment. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, growth of the jaws and other functional problems can be evaluated.
When treatment is begun early, Dr. McCaskey can guide the growth of the jaws and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
Early treatment is not indicated for all orthodontic patients. A careful screening can be done by Dr. McCaskey to determine if a Phase I of treatment is indicated for your child. These screening appointments are complimentary. Dr. McCaskey will advise you at this appointment regarding the need for early treatment and the appropriate timing of treatment.