[Experts consensus on diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for malocclusions at early developing stage]

Early orthodontic intervention remains a controversial notion in current dental care regime. Whilst early orthodontic treatment for children is the province for orthodontic specialists, a growing number of general practitioners, who may not possess sufficient specialty knowledge, are also involved, raising the concerns about the propriety and quality of their treatment modalities. However, orofacial development of children and adolescents is in a very complicated environment. Comprehensive theoretical knowledge and a great wealth of practical experience are required to ensure the final treatment effect. The possible complications should be kept under control and fully informed to patients and their parents. In order to unify and standardize early orthodontic treatment protocol and help to promote healthy and orderly development of early orthodontic treatment, this consensus summarized the practical experience of orthodontic experts from many famous colleges and affiliated hospitals for clinical reference.