Q1 : What is the right timing to start orthodontic treatment?
If the problem relates only to tooth alignment, which is the case for a great majority of orthodontic patients, the best time is when 2/3 of the roots of the 12-year-molars are formed. This would be from 11 to 13 by calendar age. There are exceptions to this, however. Early treatment is needed in some cases with problems that are not possible or difficult to effectively correct later.
As a recent general trend, some children of the lower grades (first to second grade at elementary school) are showing development of TMJ problems even without any symptoms. In such cases, it is critical to quickly establish a desired TMJ position and minimize any undesired effects on jaw growth before starting orthodontic treatment.
