Orthodontic Treatment

 

Early Treatment

Parents often ask what age is appropriate for my child to visit the orthodontist?  The American Association of Orthodontics answers that question…age 7.  Dr. Crosby feels that this is an important consultation to begin to see what the treatment needs of your child are.  Although treatment is usually not started at this young age, it is good to be able to start to plan for the future.  At this age, the upper and lower 4 permanent teeth are starting to erupt.  It is also possible to diagnose some of these common orthodontic concerns:

Thumb/Finger sucking – This is a habit that really needs to be stopped by age 7 or 8.  If not there begins to be skeletal changes in the jaws that can be very difficult to correct later on.

Spacing – Your child may be concerned about the spaces between their erupting teeth.  Although it is good to have some spacing, often there is too much, which causes the teeth to protrude.  Other than cosmetic concerns, closing these spaces can also bring the teeth back and prevent possible chips of fractures.

Crowding – The most common concern when the permanent teeth erupt is crowding.  Although crowding can be corrected at any age, parents often ask if they have to wait until all the permanent teeth are in to begin alignment.  The answer is no, limited orthodontics can be started to begin the expansion and alignment of the teeth to give your child the beautiful smile they want.

Underbite (anterior crossbite) – This is a situation that is very important to be corrected as soon as it is noticed.  There is possible damage that can be done to the front teeth if this bite is left untreated.  Also, there are some situations where it is necessary to treat at a young age in order to get full correction.

Posterior crossbite – This is where the upper arch is more narrow than the lower arch.   This is easily corrected with an expander.   If not treated at a young age, it is often difficult to fully correct.

Open Bite – This is often a result of sucking a thumb.  An open bite can be difficult to correct at any age, but getting an early consultation can be key to correcting any habits associated with condition.

 

 

Overjet (overbite) – This is when the upper teeth appear to be too far forward.  This is a condition that can usually only be fully corrected with comprehensive braces once all the permanent teeth erupt.

 

Two Phase Treatment

There are many parents who ask about two-phase orthodontic treatment.  Most questions regard whether this is worthwhile and necessary.  There are certain orthodontic conditions that are much easier to correct when children are 7-10 years old.  At this age mechanics to manipulate skeletal growth are possible, whereas later in life that opportunity is lost.  Most kids that go through this early phase of treatment need comprehensive orthodontic treatment once all the permanent teeth erupt.

What if we wait?

Sometimes waiting is ok, however there are situations where waiting can cause there to be more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your smile. Early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.  During your consultation Dr. Crosby will explain the benefits of Phase I treatment, and will be very honest about whether it is needed on your child.

Two Phase process

Phase I – Orthodontics is started when kids are around 7-10 years old.  Appliances may be used to broaden the arches, as well as partial braces placed.  This treatment lasts anywhere from 6-18 months.

Resting Period – This is after the braces come off.  Your child will receive retainers that will need to be utilized in order to maintain many of the results achieved in Phase I.

Phase II – Upon the eruption of all the permanent teeth (around age 12-13) braces are placed on all the teeth in the mouth to treat in a comprehensive manner.  This phase of treatment lasts typically 12-24 months.

Retention – After braces are removed retainers are given that will maintain all results.

Treament for Adults

Adults often say “I am too old for braces”.  To those who may be thinking the same thing you may find it interesting to note that the American Association of Orthodontics have recently released numbers that show 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are actually adults!  Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care.

Some of the orthodontic options available for adults are:

1.       Traditional metal brackets

2.       Ceramic brackets (clear braces)

3.       Invisible aligners (Invisalign)

If this is something you have been wanting to do for some time, don’t wait any longer.  Schedule a complimentary consultation to see what your options are.

Retainers

Retainers are a very significant part of your orthodontic treatment.  Teeth move throughout your entire life.  The only way to keep them in place is to wear retainers.  There are many different types of retainers ranging from clear aligners, to permanent bonded retainer.  Upon evaluation we will decide which retainer is best for you.  Regular monitoring and maintenance of your retainer will be an important factor in maintaining your beautiful smile.