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Early Treatment
When is the
best time to begin orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an
optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at
this time ensures the greatest
result and the least
amount of time and expense. The American Association of
Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation
should occur at the first sign of
orthodontic problems or no later
than age 7.
At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be
necessary, but vigilant
examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin
treatment.
What are
the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and
greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent
intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious
problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an
orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and
begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the
back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate
front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example,
the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite,
open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases
the chances for an incredible smile.
What are
the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
creating room for crowded, erupting teeth; creating facial
symmetry through influencing jaw growth; reducing the risk of
trauma to protruding front teeth; preserving space for unerupted
teeth; reducing the need for tooth removal; and reducing treatment
time with braces.
Are you
a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics are not merely for improving the aesthetics of the
smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions).
Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment.
Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or
feel about your smile.
Why
should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists,
untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems.
Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss,
which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding
teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can
result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can
result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it
creates a healthier you.
Adult Braces
Braces
aren’t just for kids anymore. Teeth alignment can be changed at
any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a
variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups –
including adults. A new smile can begin today.
Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically
improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the
health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth
and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay,
abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, even headaches,
and sometimes jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.
Good
news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce
discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten
treatment time, and may allow you to choose from several options.
Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces, and
even transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve
mild cases of misaligned teeth.
During the
initial examination, we will be able to determine the best
possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial
examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment
expected, and the approximate cost.
A large
percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s
never too late to improve their greatest asset - their smile. |
