5094 Dorsey Hall Dr., Ste 204 Ellicott City, MD 21042, 410-992-7911
2 E. Rolling Cross Roads, Ste 257 - Catonsville, MD 21228, 410-719-0480
Early Treatment
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
- Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:
- Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
- Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
- Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
- Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Use of Invisalign First in early treatment
Invisalign First is an early orthodontic treatment for children ages 6-10 that uses clear, custom-made aligners to correct developing bite issues and create space for permanent teeth. It’s a form of Phase 1 orthodontics that can address crowding, spacing, narrow arches, and bite problems like overbites, while also guiding jaw growth. The treatment is designed to be discreet, comfortable, and removable, which can help with oral hygiene and may prevent more complex treatments in the future.
What Invisalign First is and how it helps:
- Corrects issues: Addresses issues like crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches.
- Guides jaw growth: Helps guide the growth of the jaw and regulates the width of the upper and lower arches.
- Creates room for permanent teeth to erupt correctly and may prevent the need for future extractions.
- Corrects habits: Can help correct harmful habits like thumb-sucking.
- Discreet: The clear aligners are nearly invisible, making treatment less noticeable for children.
- Comfortable: The aligners are smooth and removable, avoiding the discomfort often associated with traditional braces.
- Future-focused: Early intervention can potentially reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatment in the future.
Orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.
Contact Us
Give us a call or contact us trough our contact form.
Ellicott City Office
- 410-992-7911
- 5094 Dorsey Hall Dr., Ste 204 Ellicott City, MD 21042
Catonsville Office
- 410-719-0480
- 2 E. Rolling Cross Roads, Ste 257 - Catonsville, MD 21228
Office Hours
- Mon - Thu / 9AM - 4:30PM
- Fri / 9AM - 12PM
