Children who are not ready for orthodontic treatment join our observation program which we like to call Gerald’s Club! While in Gerald’s Club, Dr. Santucci will monitor growth and development every six to nine months until the patient is ready for orthodontic treatment.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children should have their first orthodontic exam starting at seven years old. Now, seven years old may seem a little too young for braces, and most often, you’d be right! Our patients who come in for a consultation at this age rarely leave with braces.

Coming in for a complimentary evaluation is meant to identify potential growth issues, ensuring proper spacing for all permanent teeth to erupt, correcting any harmful oral habits that can cause future complications and many other issues.

While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.

Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. Early observation may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.

Early Intervention:

  • Reduces the need for permanent teeth extractions in crowded cases
  • Reduces the need for surgery in the future for tougher skeletal issues
  • Helps open up airways when restructuring the teeth and jaw