Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is essential to maintaining good oral health and a beautiful smile. However, many parents and adults are still determining when the right time is to start orthodontic treatment. Let’s discuss the appropriate age for orthodontic consults and why early treatment is important.
For Children:
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children should have their first orthodontist visit as early as age 7. This is because, at this age, a child’s teeth and jaw are still developing and typically have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Because of this, their teeth and jaw are more easily guided into their correct positions than if they have all permanent teeth. By starting early, orthodontic issues can be identified and treated before they become more severe and difficult to correct.
Some common orthodontic issues that can be corrected early on include but are not limited to:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Bite problems such as overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite
- Upper front teeth protrusion
- Jaw growth problems
Early orthodontic treatment can prevent more severe and costly issues from developing in the future, such as the need for surgery or tooth extraction. By identifying and treating these issues early, children can avoid more extensive and expensive treatment later in life.
For Adults:
While orthodontic treatment is often associated with children and teenagers, adults can also benefit from it; in fact, it’s relatively common to have adult patients coming in for orthodontic work. Adults most commonly seek orthodontic treatment to correct crooked or misaligned teeth.
Orthodontic consults for adults can be done at any age as long as their teeth and gums are healthy. Many adults are now choosing to straighten their teeth with clear aligners, a more discrete and equally effective alternative to traditional braces.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment:
Orthodontic treatment offers many benefits beyond just straighter teeth for children and adults.
These benefits can include:
- Improved oral hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Improved speech and chewing: Correcting bite problems can improve speech and chewing function.
- Improved self-esteem: A beautiful smile can boost confidence and enhance self-esteem.
Conclusion:
Orthodontic consults can benefit both children and adults. Early treatment can prevent more serious issues from developing, while treatment for adults can improve oral health and self-esteem. If you need orthodontic care, don’t hesitate to schedule a consult with us. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care and helping them achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.
