Diagnosis in Orthodontics deals with recognition of dentofacial deformities by means of,

• Essential diagnostic aids - which include clinical examination, case history, study models, Intra oral X-rays, facial photography, etc.
• Supplementary diagnostic aids, which are used only in special cases and are not required in routine clinical examination. These are special Extra & Intra-oral X rays, Electromyography and wrist X ray to find out bone age.

Best starting time for orthodontic treatment depends upon type of deformity a child has. But recommendations are that every child should visit an orthodontist at an age of 7 years. An early examination, allows the orthodontist to determine when a child's particular problem should be treated for maximum improvement with the least time and expense. In many patients, early treatment achieves results that are not possible to attain once the face and jaw have finished growing.

Another advantage an early intervention is that, the completion of treatment is easier & less time consuming.

However, the orthodontic treatment is successful at any age. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same in both adults and children. The health of an individual's teeth, gums and supporting bone is most important in determining the prospects for improving an adult's smile and dental health. But certain corrections cannot be accomplished with braces alone as an adult's facial bones are no longer growing. Nevertheless, very dramatic and exciting results can be achieved nowadays with latest technology combining surgery with Orthodontics for those who need this type of treatment (Orthognathic Surgery).