PHASE I ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT Children should be evaluated by an orthodontist when they are about seven years old. The purpose of this evaluation is to identify problems that should be treated early in order to prevent bigger problems down the road. At this age, the orthodontist can provide early treatment to influence the growth and development of the child’s teeth and jaws. Early treatment is sometimes beneficial to help avoid tooth extractions and correct speech problems. Early treatment can also help eliminate thumb-sucking habits, jaw asymmetries, and popping jaw joints. If your child is having problems with chewing, mouth breathing, or biting, a visit to the orthodontist will be very helpful. Once this evaluation takes place, it may mean that orthodontic treatment may need to take place in two-stages. A first phase of orthodontic treatment may prevent, intercept or minimize future orthodontic treatment. The first stage may be a process of guiding th...