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 with an evaluation at the age of 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.
If a patient isn’t quite ready for treatment, they can be enrolled in our Mini Sound Traks Kids Club during their growth and guidance phase.
You might consider taking your child to an orthodontist for early prevention if:
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 permanent teeth erupt which establish bite patterns and issues in bite relationship can be identified. 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 adult teeth to finish coming in. The position that the teeth erupt in may not be their permanent placement. The resting period gives the mouth time to finish developing teeth so that the adult teeth can be properly aligned by your orthodontist in Phase Two.
In an ideal situation, you may not need additional treatment after phase one. However, if you do, the first phase typically allows the second phase to be less involved and often times shorter in duration.
Phase Two Treatment:
The second phase of a two-phase treatment is used to tweak and correct any problems that may not have been able to be fully addressed or fixed by the first phase of orthodontic therapy. It usually occurs after all permanent teeth have erupted. In the second phase, braces or clear aligners adjust all of the permanent teeth to give each tooth a proper final location, and elastics are often used to improve the alignment of the bite to ensure the teeth all function in an optimal manner.
Once the appliances are removed, a retainer is made and worn to keep each tooth where it’s supposed to be!
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 smooth and compact to provide a comfortable and colorful experience. At Sound Orthodontics we offer metal braces in silver or gold options so you can choose the look that is right for you.
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!
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 adults
As we age, we heal more slowly. Thus, adult orthodontic treatment can take longer because the orthodontist needs to allow more time for your teeth to move through the supporting bone in your jaw. The bones in the jaw have stopped developing by the time one becomes an adult, so there is the possibility that adult patients may need surgery to align the jaw. Adults are also more likely to have missing teeth, or heavily restored or worn teeth, which can affect the final tooth and bite alignment. Additional bite adjustments or dental work may be needed at the end of adult orthodontic treatment.
Adults can choose to fix their orthodontic problems for a variety of reasons:
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!
