The goal of orthodontic treatment is a good bite, meaning straight teeth that mesh well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to bite, chew and speak. This can enhance your dental health and your overall health, and may improve self-esteem.
Orthodontic treatment is often part of a comprehensive dental health care plan. With good care, including orthodontic treatment when necessary, teeth can last a lifetime.
Treatment in children or teenagers who are still growing may yield results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have completed their growth.
A healthy bite is as important at age 60 as it is at age 16. Even though adults are no longer growing, they can also enjoy improvements that come from orthodontic treatment. Your age is not a consideration for orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age.
Orthodontic treatment is a smart investment in your dental, physical and emotional health.
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 seven considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of seven 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. The permanent incisor teeth also erupt around this time. The position of the erupting incisors can indicate the presence or predict the development of overbite, open bite, cross bite, crowding, or gummy smile discrepancies. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic 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.
What are the advantages of early preventative orthodontic treatment?
Some of the most direct results of early 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
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile. It creates a healthier you. Young and old, having a beautiful smile stimulates self-confidence and the desire to show it off! If you and your child are ready to begin orthodontic treatment, we invite you to contact our orthodontic office! Our friendly staff is prepared to answer your questions and concerns.