Early Treatment
While orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of 9 and 14, some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are detected earlier. Orthodontists recommend that an initial screening evaluation be done at age 7 or 8 because early detection gives us the best chance to:
- Guide jaw growth
- Correct harmful oral habits
- Lower the risk of trauma to mal positioned front teeth
- Improve appearance and self esteem
- Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
Signs the Bite is not Right
It’s not always easy to tell when an orthodontic problem is present. Even teeth that look straight may not bite correctly. Here are some of the things that we look for at an orthodontic screening visit for children:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking habits
- Tongue thrust habit
- Protruding teeth
- Crowded, misplaced or blocked out teeth
- Teeth that failed to develop and are missing
- Jaws that do not match: One jaw may be too far forward or too far back
- Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Unusual wear patterns on the teeth
- An asymmetric or unbalanced facial appearance
- Upper and lower teeth that do not meet, or meet in an abnormal way
Adult Orthodontics
You are never too old to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Today nearly one in six orthodontic patients is over age 18. At DHO we have had patients in their mid eighties who began treatment.
Adult treatment can be simple and may require just a few months to correct
Adult treatment can also be very complex. This is especially true when there are multiple issues to contend with such as: missing teeth, a history of periodontal disease, jaws that did not grow evenly or with good symmetry, teeth that have been restored with large fillings or crowns, jaw joint dysfunction, and extreme enamel wear patterns.
In solving adult treatment problems, Dental Health Orthodontists work as a team with other dental practitioners — your general dentist who provides restorative and cosmetic services, periodontal (gum) specialists, oral surgeons — to deliver a comprehensive approach to your dental care.
There are many advances in orthodontics that make treatment for adults more comfortable, less noticeable and faster than ever. An initial examination appointment will help sort out the treatment options that are best for you.
Contact one of our clinics to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help!
Evaluations are Always Free
Remember: There is never a charge for an initial screening examination or for a follow up "recall" examination.
Meet Our Staff
Our staff is looking forward to serving you!