When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
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. Dr. Brad treats you and your kids like family, if he wouldn’t recommend treatment on them then he won’t recommend it for you or your kids. “Ideally I would prefer to wait until all kids have all their permanent teeth, however, due to crossbites, missing teeth, extra teeth, there are times when early intervention is needed.” Ask about our Guaranteed Fee Plan.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity to intervene early when necessary. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Brad can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. We are quite conservative and pride ourselves in not beginning treatment until just the right time. Early concerns do not always mean early treatment.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, Dr. Brad can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, 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:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
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. Orthodontics is not for everyone, however. If the toothbrushing is not up to par, or if there is not a genuine desire to improve the fit and smile, or if scheduled appointments cannot be kept then orthodontics may be delayed or not done at all. Othodontics is, after all, an elective treatment process.
Why should malocclusions 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.
Tell us about your Guaranteed Fee Plan Dr. Brad
“I wanted to reward parents for bringing in their kids early for initial evaluation, so I came up with this plan years ago. It’s pretty simple, fees can go up gradually over time, however, once we see a child, let’s say at 7yoa and they are not ready for treatment until they are 12yoa, we will estimate a fee at 7yoa and honor that fee when they are 12yoa, so parents don’t have to worry about the fee being increased. I call it a win, win for everyone.”