ORTHODONTICS
Does Your Child Need Braces?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends all children see an orthodontist for an initial evaluation by the age of seven. At this age, permanent teeth are starting to replace baby teeth and it’s easier for our orthodontist to correct jaw growth problems. This does NOT mean that all seven year olds need braces. However, by getting regular dental growth check-ups, Dr. Parker will be able to determine the best time to begin orthodontic treatment, if it is necessary, to ensure the best results.
It’s important to note that it’s NEVER too late to receive orthodontic treatment. A healthy bite is as important at 60 as it is at 16. There are several braces options for adults that are invisible so no one will even know!
Problems to Look For
It’s not always easy to know if you or your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment which is why we offer free orthodontic consultations for our patients. Even though teeth may appear straight, there could be underlying orthodontic issues. However, there are some signs you can look for including:
- Any type of malocclusion, or “bad bite”
- Crossbite (top teeth are behind or in front of bottom teeth)
- Crowding
- Open Bite (front teeth do not meet when back teeth are closed)
- Protrusion (front teeth stick out)
- Deep Bite (upper front teeth almost completely overlap the lower front teeth)
- Underbite (lower jaw is more forward than upper jaw)
- Spacing
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Speech difficulties
- Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
- Facial imbalance
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
Types of Braces
The advancements in orthodontics have made orthodontic treatment faster and more comfortable than ever before. There are a variety of braces options available.
- Self Ligating Metal Braces – Dr. Parker uses the Damon System of braces – a revolutionary bracket system to help patients achieve broader, beautiful smiles with less pain, shorter treatment times and fewer extractions than traditional braces.
- Lingual Braces – These are braces placed behind the teeth for completely invisible orthodontic treatment. This is used most often for our teen and adult patients.
- Invisalign – Instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of fully customized and removable clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place. This is another popular option among our teen and adult patients because no one will be able to tell you’re straightening your smile.
If you or your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment, please request a free consultation today. We look forward to working with you to achieve a beautiful, confident smile!
