Ortho for Children

It's usually best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and to determine the best time for that patient to be treated. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time, and crossbites, crowding and other problems can be evaluated.

When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw, and can guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.

In cases where no early treatment is needed, the orthodontist may recommend that the child be seen briefly every few months to follow the development of the teeth and jaws. In this way, the orthodontic treatment can be begun at the most optimal time.

Ortho for Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Adult patients are benefiting now, more than ever, from the many new and more esthetic treatment options that are available. Braces come in tooth-colored ceramic materials that are practically invisible. And speaking of invisible, lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, and can't be seen at all! Then there is Invisalign, which moves teeth without braces, using clear "aligners" which defy detection, even at close range.

While it is never too late to have orthodontic treatment, there are some limitations in treating adults. Sometimes teeth can move a bit more slowly in adults than in children. Also, jaw surgery is more often recommended for adult orthodontic patients because their jaws are not growing. Adults also may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require periodontal treatment before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.