When to see an Orthodontist

The AAO recommends that a child’s first visit to an orthodontist take place by age seven, or earlier if an orthodontic problem is detected.  Frequently, malocclusions (bad bites) are present behind seemingly acceptable smiles.  And while treatment may not be started until years later, early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment.  In some cases early treatment may be initiated to prevent more serious problems from developing.  This early intervention may often make treatment at a later age shorter and/or less complicated.

Children

By age 7, most children have a mix of primary (baby) and permanent (adult) teeth.  Some orthodontic problems seen in children are inherited from their parents.  Common problems may be: dental crowding, too much spacing between teeth, protruding upper teeth, missing or extra teeth and jaw growth problems.

Other orthodontic problems are acquired.  These problems develop over time.  Some of these acquired problems may be caused by: thumb or finger sucking, mouth breathing, dental disease, tongue thrust swallow, poor dental hygiene, early or late loss of baby teeth and trauma.  The orthodontist is usually able to treat most conditions regardless of cause.

Orthodontists are trained to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and erupting teeth while some primary teeth are still present.  Early detection of problems may be advantageous for patients since some problems may be easier to correct if they are found and treated early.  Waiting for all the permanent teeth to be present, or until growth ceased, may make correction of some problems more difficult.  Even if a problem is found, chances are we will place child on a recall or observation.  With this we check child periodically and observe dental eruption and growth.  For each individual who needs treatment, there is an ideal time for it to begin in order to achieve the best result. 

Teens

The vast majority of patients begin orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 16, however this varies depending on each individual. Because teenagers are still growing, the teen years are often the optimal time to correct orthodontic problems and achieve excellent results.

Treatment is important because crowded (overlapping) teeth are difficult to clean, and that may lead to gum disease, tooth loss and tooth decay. A malocclusion can also cause abnormal wear on teeth, difficulty in chewing and/or speaking, excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue, and possible jaw joint problems. Without orthodontic treatment, problems may become worse with time.

Orthodontic treatment to correct a problem may prove to be less expensive than additional dental work required to treat problems that can develop with time. On the emotional level, an unattractive smile can be damaging to one’s self-esteem. Teens whose malocclusions are not treated may go through life feeling self-conscious, hiding their smiles with their lips or hands.

Adults

It is never too late to enjoy the benefits associated with orthodontic treatment. You do not have to live with less than perfect teeth. Regardless of your age, our office has an orthodontic treatment that is sure to put a smile on your face.

Maybe you didn’t get braces as a child, or maybe you did but stopped or lost your retainer. Orthodontics can still help you. You are never too old for a beautiful smile

You maybe pleased to know that orthodontic treatment will fit in with your current lifestyle- you can play a wind instrument, you can sing, dine out, kiss and even have your photo taken. One in five orthodontic patients is an adult. It is well recognized that when left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Such problems may lead to dental health problems. Teeth that do not fit well often wear down more quickly- another reason to make sure that your teeth are in good alignment and well maintained in your adult years.

Do not forget braces have come a long way in recent years. They are more comfortable, treatment times are shortened and less office visits. There are new materials, and new appliances- many which are less noticeable, if it all. With the many options available, it’s never been easier to achieve a beautiful smile. Call today and schedule a free consultation at 760-479-9883.