Healthy Smiles

Braces, Braces, Hear all about it....

October 22nd, 2021

October is National Orthodontic Health Month.
What a great time for us to talk about the benefits of orthodontic treatment for all ages!

Let’s start with our youngest patients. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. The reason for this is that typically six-year molars and incisors have erupted. Jaw width and length have been established by this age. If there are significant jaw discrepancies or bite problems, sometimes early intervention is required to help guide the remaining permanent teeth to erupt properly.

Although it’s very appropriate to see a child at age 7, most children in our practice do not require any kind of treatment that young. If evaluated at a young age, we continue to evaluate every 6 to 12 months, monitoring growth and tooth eruption, to determine ideal treatment timing. Most kids are treated in their adolescent years (ages 11-14) once most or all of their permanent teeth have erupted. This orthodontic treatment often coincides with puberty. Typically, children at this age are treated with braces.

Most importantly, let’s not forget about our adults. Over 1/3 of our patients are adults. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment for a variety of reasons. Maybe they have some esthetic concerns, or maybe they have a bite issue that their dentist is worried about. Many of our adult patients are treated with clear aligners, as opposed to the more traditional metal braces.

With any of our patients, we make sure to give you a personalized discussion regarding the best treatment option for you that will give you the smile you deserve!

Call us for a complimentary
consultation.

We look forward to welcoming
you to our orthodontic family!
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