Early Treatment
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Every patient is unique. The best time to begin treatment is the time at which it can be completed most efficiently and effectively to reach the best result. For some patients, this may mean initiating treatment before all of the permanent teeth have erupted (interceptive treatment). For other patients, it is best to wait until all the permanent teeth have come in to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by age seven. By completing an evaluation at this age, a determination can be made about optimal treatment timing.
What are the benefits of early (age seven) orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation allows timely detection of orthodontic problems for more effective treatment. Timely intervention guides growth and development, which may prevent serious problems later. If orthodontic problems are diagnosed but treatment would be more effectively addressed at a later date, we will carefully monitor growth and development so that treatment recommendations can be made at the appropriate time.
Why is age seven considered the optimal time for screening?
By age seven, the first molars and front incisors are usually coming in, giving important information regarding the front to back and side to side relationships of the teeth. At this age, information regarding crowding and bite relationships (overbites and underbites) can be assessed.
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Interceptive treatment means treatment that is initiated before all of the permanent teeth have come in. Following are some potential advantages of interceptive treatment:
- creating more room for crowded, erupting teeth
- creating facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
- reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- preserving space for un-erupted teeth
- preventing the need to remove permanent teeth
- reducing treatment time in full braces
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
The end result of orthodontic treatment is an attractive smile with teeth in proper alignment. While the esthetic benefit of treatment is clear, the functional benefits of correcting a poor fitting bite (malocclusion) are equally important even if less apparent. Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Having teeth in an ideal alignment will improve your ability to clean your teeth and also improve the way the teeth wear over time.
Why should a malocclusion 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 smile—it creates a healthier you.