What is the best age to evaluate a child for braces or functional orthopedic devices?
A. Some severe skeletal problems lend themselves to orthopedic treatment as early as ages 5-6. Until age ten, the fulcrum of the hinges of the lower jaw slides along a flat table. Typically at ages 10-11, the cheekbone eminence forms, creating a hollow for the mandibular condyle and a slope for the moveable fulcrum of the jaw. This limits the forward position of the jaw in the face. Many people have under developed lower jaws (not developed to our full genetic potential) due to the incomplete ‘information’ found in foods of commerce. Age 10 presents a unique opportunity to position the mandible forward with a retainer-like device, and assist growth orthopedically. This usually creates stronger jaw joints, better-aligned jaws, and more full, handsome appearance. This dental “face lift” can be done at any age, but the results can be most dramatic ages 10-11.
