Early Treatment – Phase I

An orthodontist can brighten a smile at a board age range.   However, there is an optimal time period to start treatment.  Treatment at this time can provide the greatest results in the least amount of time and expense.  The American Association of Orthodontist recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7.  Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and provides the orthodontist with time to intervene or carefully monitor growth and development for ideal treatment time.  If treatment is needed, we will provide a customized treatment plan to address your child’s specific needs.

A few advantages of early treatment are the following:

  • To create room for crowded, erupting teeth
  • To create facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
  • To reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
  • To preserve space for teeth that need to erupt
  • To cut down on treatment time in braces
  • To reduce the need for tooth removal

Please contact us at 804-454-1888 to schedule a complimentary consultation for your child.

Adolescent Treatment – Phase II

The most common time for orthodontic treatment is at the age of adolescent (age 11-15).  The reason being is that by age 12 most permanent teeth have erupted.  Moreover, it is easy to detect crooked teeth, bad bites, and gap teeth during this age range.  The problems mentioned generally does not self correct, so parent generally seek orthodontic care during this time.

This is the best time to start treatment, because the teens are typically eager to wear braces.  Also, most of their friends are wearing braces, and they enjoy fitting in.  At the same time, the parent enjoys their child’s enhanced smile and cooperation during treatment.

Another benefit besides fitting in with their friends, teens at this age are growing rapidly, and the orthodontist has a better chance of taking advantage of these growth spurts to help improve the patients bite and teeth.  Increased metabolism can help decrease the treatment time and decrease the discomfort of orthodontic treatment.

Adult Treatment – Phase III

Orthodontic care has come a long way, and more adults are seeking straighter teeth.  Braces (clear/metal) and invisible braces are more comfortable and esthetic than in the past.  A healthy bite is important at any age.  The goal of orthodontic treatment is a good bite, and this means that the teeth come together properly with the opposing arch.  Adults are seeking treatment to make it easier to bite, chew, speak and improve their overall health.  It may also improve self-esteem according to the American Association of Orthodontist.  Although, most adults are no longer growing, they can enjoy an improved smile. 

Healthy teeth can be moved at any age.  Orthodontic treatment is an investment that can improve your dental, physical and emotional health.

Contact us for a complimentary consultation today!