At what age did your child start orthodontic treatment?

[racechic]

We had our 9 1/2 year old to the ortho. for a consult yesterday and are starting her treatment with an appliance to stop a strong tongue thrust from years of thumb sucking. She has a pretty deep bite and her front teeth are protruding a bit. The orthodontist gave very valid points for starting treatment now (we were refered by our dentist). I was just curious where some of you all started with your kids-----she will be one of the first in her class to have braces in the fall.
Thanks!!~~~

[Susana]

Funny you should post this now, I was just wondering the same thing. I am taking my just-turned-11 year old son next week for his initial consultation. His eye teeth are coming in too high.
I thought he was too young, but I guess not!

[Jane]

I had braces starting at age 10. I think it went well, I sure enjoyed not having them in high school. Also, my parents took me to all the appointments, so that's a consideration. Many of my high school friends drove themselves.
In my case, I just got permanent teeth early by several years. I had two teeth pulled to slow the crowding and delay the braces a bit.

JMHO, go for it earlier rather than later if it doesn't matter. I think compliance is better for younger kids.

[carmen veranda]

My middle dd was 7. Crowding was very evident. She has had a hyrex on the top for about 10 months and one on the bottom for about 6 months. I have already spent more on her teeth than I have ever spent on a car in my life....and we have a ways to go yet....

[3boysmom]

My 12 year old is just starting with braces - he has only a slight misalignment problem. They would have started earlier but he was late losing his baby teeth.

[latinmom]

My dd got a palate explander when 6, and full braces at 13. She's 15 now, and just got them off.

[racechic]

Thanks for the replies!
I think we are going to be better off starting her treatment now rather than wait til 13 or 14. The ortho. said the tongue thrust gets more difficult to retrain with age and I don't want her over- bite to become a teasing point for her.
I appreciate the response!