When to Get a Check-up

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.

It is never too late to have a complimentary consultation. Depending on what is appropriate, Dr. Bill is glad to provide peace of mind or a plan for necessary treatment.

BUT…THERE’S STILL BABY TEETH

Dr. Bill is trained to identify subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. Early orthodontic treatment is ideal in preventing more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Early treatment is commonly referred to as phase one treatment. Sometimes, it is necessary for a child to also have phase two treatment when they are older and more natural growth and development occurs.

JUST A FEW CROOKED TEETH

In many cases, early treatment may be unnecessary as natural growth and development needs to occur before any orthodontic treatment is appropriate. For some patients, early treatment is not necessary as only a few crooked teeth need to be straightened and orthodontic treatment is not complex. For other patients, cosmetic improvement to a few crooked front teeth is preferred while waiting for the time when orthodontic treatment is appropriate. It is important for Dr. Bill to evaluate the patient and is able to set forth the best treatment for your child.

WAITING FOR ALL PERMANENT TEETH

In some circumstances early orthodontic treatment during a specific growth and development time is the easiest and best way to correct an issue and create the most stable result. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.

REASONS FOR A CHECK-UP

It’s not always easy for parents to tell if their child has an orthodontic problem. Here are some signs or habits that may indicate the need for an orthodontic check-up, regardless of age:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Difficulty in chewing or biting
  • Mouth breathing
  • Thumb sucking
  • Finger sucking
  • Crowding, misplaced or blocked out teeth
  • Jaws that shift or make sounds
  • Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
  • Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
  • Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face

ADOLESCENT/TEENS

Many middle and high school students are in braces because in many cases, their growth and development during this time is prime for orthodontic treatment. Straighten Up Orthodontics offers a variety of braces so that the adolescent can express their taste for style. We offer: standard metal braces with or without colors, clear braces and gold braces. Please see our Types of Braces Section. We also offer Invisalign® Teen, which is especially designed for adolescents.

BENEFITS OF EARLY TREATMENT

For those patients who have a clear need of early orthodontic intervention, early treatment gives your orthodontist the chance to:

  • Guide jaw growth
  • Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
  • Correct harmful oral habits
  • Improve appearance and self-esteem
  • Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
  • Improve the way lips meet