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ask the doctor
when should i schedule my child’s first visit to an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children have a checkup with an orthodontist by the age of 7. Although most children do not start orthodontic treatment until they are between the ages of 11–14, several conditions can be better corrected when treated at a younger age, such as severe protrusion of teeth, cross bites, under bites, extreme crowding, and harmful habits such as finger sucking and tongue thrusting. how has the experience of visiting the orthodontist changed in recent years?
There have been several advances in orthodontic treatment that have greatly improved the “orthodontic experience.” We are now using special types of braces and wires that allow the teeth to move more freely and comfortably. These special braces and wires have also allowed us to reduce the number of visits to the orthodontic office. Additionally, most offices are using digital x-rays, which greatly reduce radiation exposure and have improved clarity and resolution for better diagnostics.
may consist of a growth modification device like a palatal expander, a habit appliance (to stop thumb or finger sucking), partial braces or headgear. Following the first phase of treatment, retainers are used to maintain the achieved results. The primary purpose of this early phase is to guide and/or redirect jaw growth. Phase two treatment usually begins with the eruption of the permanent molars (ages 11–14), and the goal is to ensure that all permanent teeth are now in ideal alignment and correct occlusion [bringing the surfaces of the teeth from the upper jaw into proper contact with the surfaces of the teeth from the lower jaw]. Generally, there are separate fees for phase one and phase two treatment. The main reason for phase one treatment is to make
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Dr. Szymanowski answers your questions about Orthodontic treatment for your kids phase two treatment easier, shorter and more successful. Phase one treatment is designed to prevent tooth extractions, jaw surgery and lengthier treatment time in the adolescent. Investment in phase one treatment can lead to reduced costs for phase two treatment. why should i invest in braces for my child?
Braces are not only used to align your child’s teeth to give your child a beautiful smile, more importantly, they are used to improve the health and function of their teeth. Misaligned teeth are most likely to wear excessively and irregularly, leading to premature breakdown. Poorly aligned teeth can be more difficult to clean, resulting in a higher risk of dental decay and gingivitis.
i have considered invisalign treatment for myself. is invisalign offered for teens?
As you may know, Invisalign is a novel way of straightening teeth without brackets and wires, and many adults are choosing this treatment over traditional braces. It consists of sequential clear plastic trays, known as aligners. These aligners slowly move the teeth into ideal alignment. While this treatment has been traditionally offered only to adult patients, we now offer Invisalign Teen. Benefits include improved hygiene and a treatment plan that doesn’t use brackets that can be broken and wires that can poke into sensitive tissue. However, patient compliance is critical, and not every case can be successfully treated with Invisalign. k
As mentioned, there are several conditions for which early treatment is beneficial. Early treatment—known as phase one treatment—prevents more severe problems once the child reaches adolescence. Phase one treatment 10 kidaroundmag.com • May–June 2013
Photo courtesy of Dr. Szymanowski
i have heard kids are getting braces earlier than ever, and sometimes twice. is that true, and does it cost more?