Braces for Kids and Teens

At which age an orthodontic treatment should be started?

As such, an orthodontist can improve a smile at any age; still it is good to begin it at an optimal time period. The treatment, if taken at this optimal time, gives the most desired results in minimum amount of cost and time duration. It is recommended by The American Association of Orthodontists that the treatment should begin as soon as the first occurrence of orthodontic problems or not after 7 years of age. Although there may not be a need of orthodontics at a young age as this, vigilant observation can clear the most appropriate time for starting the treatment.

How does an early orthodontic observation help?

Early evaluation makes it possible to recognize the problem early and thereby increases the chances of efficacious treatment. Careful mediation promotes development and growth, which checks the chances of future problems. In case of no need of orthodontic procedure, the orthodontist can observe the growth and development with care and initiate the procedure when the time is ideal.

How is age 7 the most advisable time for screening?

7 is the age when the first adult molars appear and establish the back bite. For the evaluation of side-to-side and front-to-back relationship between teeth, this age is the most appropriate. E.g., the burst out incisors can tell the orthodontist if they will give rise to problems like gummy smiles, open bite, crowding or overbite. The earlier the screening, the more are the chances of an amazing smile.

In what way does the interceptive treatment help?

The advantages of interceptive treatment are numerous, some of them being, making room for crowded teeth, making the face symmetrical by affecting jaw growth, minimizing the trauma to the protruding front teeth, preservation of space for un-erupted teeth, reducing the chances of tooth removal and reducing the treatment duration with braces.

Do you need to undergo orthodontic treatment?

The use of orthodontics is not limited to aesthetic smiles; bad bites, i.e. malocclusions are controlled by orthodontic treatment. Malocclusions are caused by misalignment of jaw or teeth. Malocclusions influence your smile, chewing, cleaning of teeth and feeling about your smile.

What is the need of treatment of malocclusions?

Based on the studies done, The American Association of Orthodontists opines that untreated malocclusions can create numerous problems in future. Crowded teeth create problems in proper clean-up or floss and hence can cause tooth decay and/or diseases of gums Protruding teeth are particularly more susceptible to sudden chipping. Crossbites can give rise to unseemly growth and abnormal tooth wear. Openbites cause habit of tongue-thrusting and speech problems. Therefore, it can be said that orthodontics is not just a cosmetic faculty which makes your smile lovely, but it enhances your well-being.