Early Interceptive Treatment | Treatment of Craniofacial Irregularities | Ceramic “Clear Braces” | In-Ovation R
Early Interceptive Treatment
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. 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.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
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, an orthodontist 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.
If you observe any of the following early warning signs in your child’s development, you may need to call an orthodontist:
- Overjet - upper teeth protrude past lower teeth
- Underbite - lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth
- Crossbite - upper teeth fit inside lower teeth
- Open bite - upper and lower do not contact
- Overbite - lower front teeth contact upper gums
- Overlapping or crowded teeth
- Mouthbreathing
- Difficulty Chewing
- Speech problems with associated tongue habits
- Finger sucking after age 5
- Jaw joint problems or unexplained earaches
- Early or late loss of teeth
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results and benefits of interceptive treatment are:
- A more attractive smile
- Improved long-term health of teeth and gums
- Reduced self-consciousness of appearance during critical years
- Increased self confidence and interpersonal effectiveness
- Guide facial growth to a more attractive smile
- Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
- Reduce the need to extract teeth
- Possibly reduce treatment time required for comprehensive braces
- Eliminate the need to replace missing teeth
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.
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.
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Treatment of Craniofacial Irregularities such as Clefts, Hemifacial, Microsomia, etc.
Special Problems with Teeth and Jaws
Because cleft palates and other craniofacial irregularities affect the form and growth of the upper jaw, the teeth become a special consideration. Development and alignment of the teeth and their relationship to the jaw needs to be addressed during infancy and throughout the child’s growing years.
It is recommended that a child with craniofacial irregularities see an orthodontist when the child is around 2 years of age. This allows us to coordinate dental and orthodontic needs along with other treatments to maximize benefits.
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Ceramic “Clear Braces”
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal.
Ceramic braces utilize less noticeable brackets for patients concerned about aesthetic appearances. Ceramic brackets are translucent, so they blend in with your natural tooth color. This means that unlike traditional stainless steel braces, with ceramic braces your smile will not look ’metallic.’ In addition, ceramic brackets are designed so that they won’t stain or discolor over long periods of time.
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InOvation R
“R” is a revolutionary new system of braces that is not only faster for your orthodontist to use, it also can significantly shorten treatment time. It’s great looking and smaller for greater comfort, plus it offers better hygiene than conventional braces.
Orthodontic treatment is a worthwhile investment not only in your personal appearance, but also in your overall good health.
To receive the maximum benefit, be certain to follow the advice of your orthodontist regarding oral hygiene and the maintenance of your braces.
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