When is the best time to have an orthodontic screening?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist by age 7. Why? By this age, all of your child’s permanent incisors (front teeth) have erupted, as well as a few first molars. If inadequate spacing exists, some of these new teeth could become impacted, or unable to erupt.

Typically, braces are not placed until children are older, but by visiting Kelley & Gardner Orthodontics early, we can evaluate problems with eruptions now that can impact a smile later. We can also identify growth discrepancies of your child’s jaw, crossbites, crowding, and other developmental issues that could adversely affect a beautiful smile later in life.

Early screening and treatment allows us to:

  • Reduce displaced or blocked permanent teeth and guide them into desirable positions
  • Direct jaw growth and regulate the width of dental arches
  • Decrease harmful oral habits, such as thumb sucking, and abnormal swallowing or speech problems
  • Simplify and shorten treatment time
  • Improve the aesthetics of your smile and increase self-esteem

If your child shows signs of the following problems or habits, call us today to schedule a consultation:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Problems chewing or biting
  • Displaced or blocked teeth
  • Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
  • Thumb or finger sucking
  • Mouth breathing
  • Jaws or teeth that are disproportionate

What is the best treatment for teens?

Teens often worry about wearing orthodontic appliances, and we understand why. It can be an awkward time in your life, and with so many other changes, the last thing you want to deal with is braces.

Thankfully, orthodontic technology has come a long way. Thanks to products such as Invisalign® Teen and Damon Clear, you can straighten your teeth the clear way! Invisalign Teen and Damon Clear are both practically invisible—so you don’t have to worry about others noticing your braces throughout your treatment process.

With Invisalign® Teen, you wear a series of clear aligners to slowly straighten your teeth.  An advantage of Invisalgin is that you don’t need to learn how to chew and brush with braces in the way.  Plus, you can remove your aligners to eat and brush your teeth.

Damon Clear is the latest in clear braces.  Because Damon Clear uses a self-ligating bracket, there are no o-ties to hold your wire in.  The o-ties are what leave stains on older “clear” braces.  Damon Clear brackets are resistant to staining from coffee, mustard, and other agents, which helps them look great all the time!

It’s time you got the smile you want—the flexible, comfortable way. Contact our office today to schedule a free new patient consultation for your child or teen!