Chapter 26A: One-Page Summary — Each Stage at a Glance

Preventive Orthodontics (Roughly Ages 6–10)

Purpose: monitor development and catch problems early. Involves: routine check-ups, occasional space maintainers, habit management. Appliances: rare. Key action for parents: book a first orthodontic evaluation by around age seven.

Interceptive Orthodontics (Roughly Ages 7–11)

Purpose: guide jaw growth and correct emerging problems while the jaw is still growing. Involves: functional appliances, palatal expanders, selective space management. Appliances: yes, for a defined period tied to a specific diagnosed issue. Key action for parents: ask specifically what problem is being treated and what happens if you wait.

Comprehensive Orthodontics (Roughly Ages 11+, Including Adults)

Purpose: fully align teeth and finalize the bite once permanent teeth are present. Involves: braces or clear aligners, followed by a retention phase. Appliances: yes, typically for twelve to thirty months of active treatment. Key action for parents: get a written treatment plan and commit fully to the retention phase afterward.