Orthodontics for Children
While there’s no specific age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting an orthodontist around age seven. By this age, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, allowing orthodontists to detect and address potential tooth and jaw issues early—often without the need for surgery.
Early treatment provides the opportunity to:
- Correct and guide jaw growth for straight permanent teeth.
- Regulate the width of the upper and lower arches.
- Create space for crowded teeth and avoid future extractions.
- Address thumb-sucking habits and improve minor speech issues.
Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Care:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth.
- Difficulty chewing or biting food.
- Mouth-breathing or thumb-sucking.
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth.
- Jaws that pop or make sounds when moving.
- Teeth that don’t meet properly or don’t meet at all.
- Jaws or teeth that appear disproportionate to the face.
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight.
By addressing these concerns early, you can ensure your child’s long-term oral health and confidence. Schedule an evaluation today to give your child a bright, healthy smile for the future.
Orthodontics for Teens
Braces, retainers, and everything in between—teen orthodontics doesn’t have to be intimidating for teenagers!
“You need braces!” Those three words may sound daunting, but modern braces are nothing like they used to be. With today’s advanced technology, braces come in a variety of styles, materials, and even colors, making treatment more comfortable, stylish, and efficient than ever before.
How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces?
The length of treatment depends on several factors:
Monitoring Growth and Changes — Orthodontists carefully assess jaw growth and tooth alignment over time to determine if additional treatment may be needed. Every patient is unique, and the timeline for achieving the best results is tailored to your specific needs.
What Needs Correction — The complexity of the issue being corrected plays a major role in determining treatment length. Some patients may achieve their desired results in as little as 12 months, while others may require 24 months or more. Treatment time can vary depending on how your body responds to the process and the extent of the work required.
YOU! — Your cooperation and dedication make a significant difference in how quickly your treatment progresses. Taking care of your braces, following your orthodontist’s instructions, and using any prescribed appliances properly can help shorten the time needed for treatment and ensure the best possible outcome.
Braces Your Way!
Orthodontics today offers a range of options to suit every lifestyle and preference, including:
- Ceramic braces.
- Invisible aligners.
- Lingual (behind the teeth) braces.
- Traditional metal braces.
Embrace your braces journey with confidence, knowing you have stylish and effective options to achieve your best smile. Schedule your orthodontic checkup today!
Orthodontics for Adults
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens anymore! The American Association of Orthodontists reports that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults seek treatment to enhance their health, improve their smiles, and boost their confidence.
Why Adults Seek Orthodontic Care:
- Misaligned teeth lead to bite issues, gum disease, or discomfort.
- Crowded or spaced teeth that are harder to clean.
- Jaw pain or pressure caused by crooked teeth.
- Desire for a healthier mouth and confident smile.
Modern Treatment Options for Adults:
Adults today can choose from a variety of discreet and effective options, such as:
- Clear braces.
- Ceramic braces.
- Self-ligating braces.
- Lingual braces (behind the teeth).
- Invisible aligners.
Key Differences for Adult Orthodontics:
- Jaw Development: Unlike children, adults’ jawbones have stopped growing, which may require additional procedures like orthognathic surgery for alignment.
- Gum or Bone Health: Adults are more prone to gum recession or bone loss, making proper alignment essential.
- Worn or Missing Teeth: Orthodontics can address shifting caused by missing or worn teeth to restore function and aesthetics.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults:
- Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- A straight smile enhances confidence and quality of life.
- Addressing alignment issues can prevent future complications and costly treatments.
It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We understand busy schedules and will work with you to make every visit as convenient as possible.
