Early Treatment
Right Age for Orthodontic Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an orthodontist first see a child as early as age 7 and even earlier if a parent or the family dentist discovers a problem. The timing of orthodontic treatment is extremely important and greatly affects the treatment result. Since no two patients are alike, there is not a specific age that is best to begin treatment. However, early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist can help guide facial growth and tooth eruption, and prevent more serious problems from developing. Our goal is to reduce the possibility of more serious and complicated treatment, and provide the best and most stable results possible.
Adolescents that show signs of misalignment of teeth or a dysfunctional jaw or bite are strong candidates for care.
It’s never too late for orthodontic treatment. Roughly 25% of our patients are into their adult years. It is typical for adults, no matter what age to experience rotation of misalignment of the teeth. As braces have become less noticeable and more affordable, orthodontic care has become more and more popular with adults.
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
- Reducing treatment time with braces
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is 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.