The biological process of orthodontic treatment within the mouth is consistent regardless of age. Teeth respond to forces applied over time by moving accordingly. Many orthodontic issues seen in adults can also be effectively corrected in children and adolescents. However, certain jaw discrepancies like underdevelopment or overgrowth cannot be corrected with orthodontic methods alone in adults; surgical intervention may be necessary for jaw corrections in such cases. Jaw discrepancies identified during childhood (underdevelopment/overgrowth) can be corrected early, taking advantage of growing jaws.
