Early Treatment
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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children
complete their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7. While braces are generally
not needed at this age there are certain orthopedic conditions that require
treatment while the patient is still growing and that cannot be accomplished
without compromise as a teenager or as an adult. We offer a complimentary
New Patient Examination and have found that 7 to 8 years of age is as good
a time as any for that first check-up. When is the best time to begin orthodontics? Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the best possible result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment. 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 7 considered the optimal time for screening? By the age of 7 the adult first molars are erupting and are establishing the posterior bite pattern. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. In addition, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile. What are the advantages of interceptive treatment? Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the 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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