Orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning in the primary dentition

Early recognition of malocclusions is in the hands of the primary care providers. Pediatric and general dentists should be familiar with conditions that are known to interfere with growth and development of a child. Conditions such as early loss of primary teeth, anterior and posterior crossbites, and some Class III skeletal problems can be treated in the primary dentition to facilitate normal growth and development and offered some benefit to the patients. On the other hand, aggressive arch length modulation, Class II correction and intervention for vertical problems, including non-nutritive sucking habits, is largely unwarranted.