Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated for
possible orthodontic problems by age 7.
Creating a nice smile can be critical during the age of self-image and self-esteem
development.
Because space is created early, teeth usually come in straighter if they have room.
This, in particular, can simplify and shorten later orthodontic treatment and possibly
prevent the extraction of permanent teeth.
Modern expansion techniques are very comfortable and have proven to be very stable
when performed early (before the closure of the palatal suture.)
During early treatment, we can effectively address harmful oral habits like thumb
sucking and tongue thrusting.
Why start looking at age 7?
Around the age of 7, the permanent first molars and central incisors (front two teeth)
have usually erupted. At that time, we can evaluate the relationship between the jaws
and space requirements for the remaining permanent teeth.
There are solid benefits of early treatment. Cooperation potential is good at this young
(7-10 years) age. Children are generally excited about treatment. It makes them feel
and look older. This is also the age when they are starting to care about the look of
their teeth.
Do all kids need to start treatment early?
No, most do not. However, if jaw discrepancies are severe, space is limited or there is
a cross bite, a "First Phase" of orthodontic treatment can provide significant
advantages. The following growth discrepancies are best treated early: Upper Jaw Too
Far Forward, Lower Jaw Underdeveloped, Upper Jaw Underdeveloped and Lower Jaw
Overdeveloped.
Does early treatment eliminate the need for braces later?
Rarely, but it can significantly simplify and shorten the comprehensive (full braces)
phase of treatment.
A typical "first phase" started at 7 or 8 years of age would last between 9-12 months.
After which there would be a period of retention followed by a break lasting from 1-2
years depending on the eruption of the permanent teeth. The typical "second phase" of
treatment usually lasts between 12-24 months depending on the severity. That means
that most patients finish treatment before high school. Our patients have told us that
the most awkward time to wear braces is junior and senior year of high school.
__________________________________________________________________
Adult
Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your
gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are
designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.
Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal
appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally
important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth
decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint
(TMJ/TMD) pain.
Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort
levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to
choose from several options. During the initial examination, we will be able to
determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial
examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the
approximate cost.
A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to
improve their greatest asset - their smile.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated for
possible orthodontic problems by age 7.
Creating a nice smile can be critical during the age of self-image and self-esteem
development.
Because space is created early, teeth usually come in straighter if they have room.
This, in particular, can simplify and shorten later orthodontic treatment and possibly
prevent the extraction of permanent teeth.
Modern expansion techniques are very comfortable and have proven to be very stable
when performed early (before the closure of the palatal suture.)
During early treatment, we can effectively address harmful oral habits like thumb
sucking and tongue thrusting.
Why start looking at age 7?
Around the age of 7, the permanent first molars and central incisors (front two teeth)
have usually erupted. At that time, we can evaluate the relationship between the jaws
and space requirements for the remaining permanent teeth.
There are solid benefits of early treatment. Cooperation potential is good at this young
(7-10 years) age. Children are generally excited about treatment. It makes them feel
and look older. This is also the age when they are starting to care about the look of
their teeth.
Do all kids need to start treatment early?
No, most do not. However, if jaw discrepancies are severe, space is limited or there is
a cross bite, a "First Phase" of orthodontic treatment can provide significant
advantages. The following growth discrepancies are best treated early: Upper Jaw Too
Far Forward, Lower Jaw Underdeveloped, Upper Jaw Underdeveloped and Lower Jaw
Overdeveloped.
Does early treatment eliminate the need for braces later?
Rarely, but it can significantly simplify and shorten the comprehensive (full braces)
phase of treatment.
A typical "first phase" started at 7 or 8 years of age would last between 9-12 months.
After which there would be a period of retention followed by a break lasting from 1-2
years depending on the eruption of the permanent teeth. The typical "second phase" of
treatment usually lasts between 12-24 months depending on the severity. That means
that most patients finish treatment before high school. Our patients have told us that
the most awkward time to wear braces is junior and senior year of high school.
__________________________________________________________________
Adult
Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your
gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are
designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.
Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal
appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally
important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth
decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint
(TMJ/TMD) pain.
Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort
levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to
choose from several options. During the initial examination, we will be able to
determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial
examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the
approximate cost.
A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to
improve their greatest asset - their smile.
| 203-838-2003 |
| Donald D. Yanell, DDS |
Orthodontics
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