How do I know if my child is in need of orthodontic treatment? Are there early symptoms?
There are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. There are also situations that appear complex and intimidating which will resolve on their own. Your best resource is the Orthodontist himself. At a complimentary initial exam Dr. Coccaro can evaluate the patient and make recommendations for treatment if necessary.

The following symptoms may help in prompting you to seek an Orthodontic evaluation:

Questions to ask

• Ask you child to open his mouth, and let you look at his teeth. Do you see any signs of crooked teeth, gaps between the teeth, overlapping teeth?
• Ask your child to bite all the way down while keeping the lips open. Do the front top teeth line up with the bottom? Do the op teeth protrude out away from the bottom teeth? Are the top teeth behind the bottom teeth?
• Look at the alignment of your child’s jaw. Does the jaw shift off center when you child bites down? If you see any misalignment or shifting of the jaw, your child may have a skeletal problem which can be treated with early orthodontic intervention.
• The parent can be an excellent observer of their children. When something “doesn’t look right “ it is a good idea to have you orthodontic specialist make an evaluation.

Treatment timing
Dr. Coccaro provides orthodontic treatment for adults, adolescents and children. He follows the guidelines established by the American Association of Orthodontists by recommending that an orthodontic evaluation take place at age seven for all children. This early evaluation can help to determine the best time to begin any necessary treatment.

Many progressive treatments are available for patients 7 to 11 years of age that provide significant benefits, especially when jaw irregularities are present. These treatments may also prevent certain conditions from worsening. Treatment children with these types of problems during their growing years has many advantages. Amazing results are possible when treatment begins before face and jaw bones have fully developed. Early interceptive treatment can simplify or even eliminate additional treatment for the child.

A complimentary diagnosis of your child can answer your individual questions and determine when and if treatment is appropriate for your child. Addressing the concerns of parents enable us to provide the best treatment for their children