Braces
Price On RequestWhen should orthodontic treatment be started? The most confusing question for most parents, and some general dentists, is when to actually start treatment. The objective is to treat at the time when it will minimize treatment time, achieve a normal profile, and get the best long term, stable result. Some orthodontic problems start developing at the age of 6 to 7 years, and it is usually a good time to get an initial consultation, especially if the parent or general dentist suspects that a problem may be developing. Though no active treatment may be initiated at this time in most cases, some problems may need to be intercepted to prevent them from later developing into complicated situations. An example of an indication to start early treatment is the presence of a cross-bite of the front or back teeth. What are the early warning signs of a bad bite? Upper front teeth protrude or are "bucked" Top front teeth cover more than 25% of the bottom front teeth when the back teeth are biting together Top front teeth grow in behind the bottom front teeth A space exists between the top and bottom front teeth with the back teeth biting together Crowded or overlapped teeth or extra teeth Baby teeth are slow falling out The centers of the top and bottom front teeth don't line up Finger sucking habit continuing after 6 years of age Difficulty chewing Teeth wearing unevenly Jaws that shift off center when the teeth bite together Excessive spaces between teeth that persist after the top permanent canine teeth appear Teeth or smile often hidden by hands. It is most important to examine your child's teeth as the permanent teeth grow in. Although children mature at different rates, there are some averages for permanent tooth arrival. Will orthodontics change my lifestyle? You'll have to give up extremely hard and sticky foods including gum. These foods can get caught on the braces and pull the braces off. And you'll have to spend a few extra minutes cleaning your braces after meals. But, for the most part, you'll find braces don't cramp your style. You'll still be able to sing, play your musical instrument, smile, play sports, etc. BENEFITS OF EARLY TREATMENT Regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches Gain space for permanent teeth Reduce the need for permanent tooth extractions Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth Correct thumb-sucking, and regulate abnormal swallowing or speech problems Simplify late treatment Improve the child's self image during formative years. Braces for adults Have you considered having your teeth straightened but felt you were too old? Are you dissatisfied with your smile but don't know if braces are for you? Are you finding it hard to keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, a trip to the orthodontist may be in order. Orthodontic treatment can be done at any age. Healthy adult teeth can be moved in much the same way as children s teeth, although time taken may be slightly more. Moreover, recent advances in techniques has made braces treatment for adults more comfortable, faster and less visible. Adults can opt for ceramic (clear) or invisible (lingual) braces as well as the regular metal ones. Remember, teeth can be straightened at any age. If you have always wanted to change your smile but were hesitant because of your age, consult us. We will answer all queries regarding your treatment and start you on the road to more beautiful teeth.