Most patients begin orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 16, but this varies depending on
each individual. Because teenagers are still growing, the teen years are often the best time to correct
orthodontic problems and achieve excellent and stable results.
Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, excess
spacing between teeth, protruding upper teeth, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems. Other malocclusions are acquired. In other words, they develop over time. They can be caused by
thumb-sucking or finger-sucking as a child, mouth breathing, dental disease, abnormal swallowing, poor oral hygiene, the early or late loss of baby teeth, accidents, poor nutrition or some medical problems. |
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