Treatment For All Ages

Early Treatment

There are certain conditions that may qualify a child for early prevention orthodontics. Seeing an orthodontist early can help identify issues that affect the growth and development of the jaws or the health of individual teeth, like crossbites. Early intervention may be recommended for crowding to help preserve as much space as possible for adult teeth to come in.

Early prevention starts at age seven, which is when The American Association of Orthodontics recommends parents bring their children to an orthodontist. At this age, permanent teeth have begun to create a bite pattern and can be examined for irregularities. Starting treatment early can take advantage of bones that are still growing and better address problems before they develop fully.

You might consider taking your child to an orthodontist for early prevention if:

• They have trouble breaking a thumb-sucking habit
• A speech impediment exists
• Your child’s jaw comes together in an abnormal way when they bite
• Your child’s teeth do not come together, or do so in an irregular manner
• There is an issue with breathing
• Teeth protrude from the upper or lower jaw
• Your child has problems with chewing and biting
• Your child loses their baby teeth too early or too late (they should start losing teeth at age 5 and have their adult teeth by 13)

Two Phase Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is used to address issues of facial bone structure as well as teeth alignment. By dividing the treatment into two different parts, it allows the orthodontist to correctly fix all problems that contribute to overall functionality of the mouth and teeth.

Phase One Treatment:

Phase One Treatment usually involves early prevention to address problems of the jaw and underlying bone while they are still developing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child see an orthodontist by the age of seven because this is when teeth bite patterns can be recognized. Early treatment allows for bone discrepancies to be addressed and jaw problems  to be treated so that the jaw can fit together properly.

Rest:

Between phases one and two, the patient takes time to rest and allow their teeth to finish coming in. The position that the teeth erupt in may not be their permanent placement, as your orthodontist will make further changes during the second phase. However, the resting period gives the mouth time to finish developing teeth so that they can be properly aligned.

In an ideal situation, you may not need further treatment after phase one. However, if you do, the first phase will allow the second phase to be less involved and detailed.

Phase Two Treatment:

The second phase, Two-Phase Treatment is used to tweak and correct any problems that may have not been fully addressed or fixed by the first phase of orthodontic therapy. It usually occurs after all permanent teeth have developed. In the second phase braces are usually placed on all of the permanent teeth to give each tooth a proper final location and ensure they all function in an optimal manner.

Once the braces are removed, a retainer is made and worn to keep each tooth where it’s supposed to be!

Teen Orthodontics

One of the most popular options for teens is our traditional metal braces which have colored ties that can be changed at each appointment. Our metal braces are our smallest braces, so they provide a comfortable and colorful orthodontic experience.

Another great option for our teen patients is Invisalign Teen®, which uses a series of clear, removable trays to straighten teeth. Invisalign Teen® allows you to straighten your smile without anyone even knowing!

To find out which option would best fit your needs, request a FREE consultation!

Adult Orthodontics

It is never too late to achieve the perfect smile you’ve always wanted! In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists reports that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Adults may choose to correct their orthodontic problems not only for cosmetic reasons but to maintain their health as well.

Orthodontics for teenagers and adults

As you get older, you heal more slowly. Thus, adult orthodontic treatment can take longer because the doctor needs to allow more time for your mouth to heal between teeth movements. The bones in the jaw have stopped developing by the time one becomes an adult, so there is the possibility that an older patient may need surgery to align the jaw.  Adults are also more likely to have missing teeth, which can change the way the teeth are positioned.

Adults can choose to fix their orthodontic problems for a variety of reasons:

• Crowded teeth, which can cause dental problems such as tooth decay and plaque build-up
• Jaw pain that can result from an irregular bite or alignment
• Cosmetic reasons: a desire for a beautiful smile

While the idea of braces as an adult may be daunting, there are many options you can choose from. At Sound Orthodontics, we are proud to offer: Invisalign® (which uses clear aligners), clear braces, and traditional metal braces for adults of any age.

Remember, straight teeth lead to healthy teeth. The issue with crooked or spaced teeth is that there is an increased likelihood for dental hygiene problems. It is more likely for build-up to occur between teeth, as well as wear and tear that can end up costing you more in the future. Also, never underestimate the power of confidence that a beautiful smile can give you!