RIGHT AGE FOR ORTHODONTICS
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an orthodontist first see a child as early as age 7 and even earlier if a parent or the family dentist discovers a problem. The timing of orthodontic treatment is extremely important and greatly affects the treatment result. Since no two patients are alike, there is not a specific age that is best to begin treatment.
Early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist can help guide facial and skeletal growth and tooth eruption, to prevent more serious problems from developing. Our goal is to reduce treatment time in full braces and to provide the best and most stable results possible. Early treatment by an orthodontic specialist provides a method of managing a difficult orthodontic problem that is frequently easier on a child.
While people tend to associate orthodontics with children, over 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. Today's less noticeable braces have contributed to this increase in popularity. New techniques and materials now allow extended intervals between appointments to make treatment more convenient than ever. Adults of all ages can fully appreciate the return on an orthodontic investment: a great smile, improved self-confidence and overall better dental health.