Oops make that age 8. Just checked with my mother - she says my first appt with ole Butcher (the orthodontist) was a couple months before my 9th birthday.

Interestingly enough, one of my 9-year old students walked in last night, looking pretty tired and miserable. As I taught her little sister, I noticed her gingerly, and oh so gently, patting and putting her hand over her mouth as she sat there reading.

But it wasn't till she managed to crack me a smile during her own lesson that I noticed the brand new sparkling set of train tracks on her teeth.

*shiver shiver* I couldn't even mention it. Neither could she. I know the pain, and she's discovering it. ANd she has my sympathy - and best wishes.