Early Treatment

When is the right time to see an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist can enhance your smile at any age, yet, there is still an optimal time period to start with the treatment. Initiating treatment at this time ensures best result and the least amount of expense and time. The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that an initial orthodontic evaluation must take place at the first sign of orthodontic issues or around seven years of age. At this early age, an orthodontic treatment may not be required, but an examination can help plan the best time to start with treatment.

What are the benefits of having an early orthodontic evaluation?

An early evaluation allows a timely diagnosis of problems and provides better opportunity for an effective treatment. Careful intervention can guide growth and development,that prevents serious problems arising later life. When an orthodontic intervention is not important, an orthodontist can carefully monitor development and growth and can start treatment when considers it ideal.

Why is seven years old considered the best age for seeing an orthodontist?

By this age, the first adult molars begin to erupt, allowing for the back bite. At this time, an orthodontist can  easily evaluate side-to-side  and front-to-back tooth relationships. For instance, erupting incisors can show a possible overbite, crowding or open bite. Early diagnosis and treatment in many cases can help to avoid more extensive treatment in the future years after the jaw and face have developed.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

The direct advantages of interceptive treatment include:

  • Creates space for erupting , crowded teeth
  • Reduces risk of trauma to the protruding front teeth
  • Creates facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
  • Preserves space for unerupted teeth
  • Reduces treatment time with braces
  • Reduces the need for tooth removal

What are the other reasons for an orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is not just for improving the aesthetics of the smile but it also helps to improve malocclusions (bad bites). Malocclusions occur because of jaw or tooth misalignment and influence the way you chew, smile, clean or feel about your teeth.

Why is it important to treat malocclusions?

Studies of the American Association of Orthodontists revealed that untreated malocclusions may result in a variety of issues:

  • Crowded teeth are difficult to brush and floss properly, that can contribute to tooth decay or a gum disease.
  • The protruding teeth are most susceptible to accidental chipping.
  • Openbites can develop speech impediments and tongue thrusting habits.
  • Crossbites may cause unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
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