Early Treatment
When Is the Best Treatment to Begin Orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance your smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to start treatment. If you start treatment at this time, it helps achieve an optimal result. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age seven. At this age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but examination by an orthodontist is very helpful in catching any problems that should be corrected at an early age. Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and a better opportunity for treatment.
Why Is Age 7 Considered the Optimal Time for Screening?
By the age of 7 the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. If you visit us during this time, we 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 of a beautiful smile.
Advantages of Interceptive Treatment
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Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
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Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
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Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
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Preserving space for unerupted teeth
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Reducing the need for tooth removal
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Reducing treatment time with braces
Do You Need Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of your 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:
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Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease
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Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping
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Crossbites can result in unfavourable growth and uneven tooth wear
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Open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments
Orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile.
