Dr. King Answers: Do You Ever Use a “Wait It Out” Strategy When Treating Kids?

Q: Do you ever use a “wait it out” strategy when treating kids? Is there a benefit to waiting until almost all of the adult teeth are in before trying to correct some issues?

A: Great question! The answer is yes. For the most part, I like to wait until all of the adult teeth are grown in before starting orthodontic braces treatment. Even so, it is important to know that some issues are best cared for before full eruption of adult teeth.

Underbite can occur when the lower
teeth protrude past the front teeth.

For example, crossbites, narrow jaws, and underbites [see image] should be corrected between ages 8-9 years. Research has shown that overbites are best left untreated until 11-13 years. Crowding and spacing, unless disfiguring, should also wait until the patient is about 12 years of age.

The wait-and-see approach is great in most cases, as a lot changes over time. Patients grow and mature; so do their teeth and jaws.

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consultation!
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SOURCE: Invisalign® [image]