BRACES FOR CHILDREN
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. The age at which a child needs orthodontic treatment depends on the type and severity of the orthodontic problems that are present. Some orthodontic problems are more effectively treated at an early age, while others are best treated once the majority of permanent teeth have erupted.
Not every child needs orthodontic treatment at an early age. Mildly crowded teeth is one orthodontic problem that is better treated once the majority of permanent teeth have erupted. Mild tooth crowding can be corrected in young children without causing any harmful effects to the unerupted permanent teeth. However, this sometimes necessitates wearing retainers for an extended time period (years) in order to hold the tooth alignment while other permanent teeth erupt. For most children with mild tooth crowding, waiting to start orthodontic treatment until the majority of permanent teeth erupt, is a more practical option.
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.
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.
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 (bad bites) 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 smileit creates a healthier you.
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The age at which a child needs orthodontic treatment depends on the type and severity of the orthodontic problems that are present. Some orthodontic problems are more effectively treated at an early age, while others are best treated once the majority of permanent teeth have erupted.
Not every child needs orthodontic treatment at an early age. Mildly crowded teeth is one orthodontic problem that is better treated once the majority of permanent teeth have erupted. Mild tooth crowding can be corrected in young children without causing any harmful effects to the unerupted permanent teeth. However, this sometimes necessitates wearing retainers for an extended time period (years) in order to hold the tooth alignment while other permanent teeth erupt. For most children with mild tooth crowding, waiting to start orthodontic treatment until the majority of permanent teeth erupt, is a more practical option.
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.
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.
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 (bad bites) 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 smileit creates a healthier you.
