We recommend bringing your child by age 7 for an orthodontic evaluation. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated. With early intervention, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In some situations, early treatment can simplify later treatment.