How do I know if my child is in need of orthodontic treatment?

It is usually difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Conversely, there are some conditions which look intimidating and complex that will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is good reference and we are your best resource since orthodontics is our specialty. Our initial exam is complimentary and Dr. Kmentt would be more than happy to see your child and make any recommendations necessary.

What are the early symptoms of orthodontic problems?

Although it is difficult for you to assess whether or not treatment is necessary, the following symptoms may help in prompting you to seek our orthodontic advice.

Look at your child's teeth. If you see any signs of crooked teeth, gaps between teeth or overlapping teeth, your child may need orthodontic treatment.

While keeping the lips open so you can see the teeth, ask your child to bite all the way down. Do the front top teeth line up with the bottom? Do the top teeth protrude out away from the bottom teeth? Do the top front teeth cover more than 50% of the bottom teeth? Are the top teeth behind the bottom teeth? All these are indicators for potential orthodontic treatment.

Look at the alignment of your child's jaw. Does the jaw shift off center when your child bites down? If you see any misalignment or shifting of the jaw, your child may have a skeletal problem which requires early orthodontic intervention.

These are only some of the obvious symptoms of orthodontic problems.

What age should my child be seen by an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven. Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.

Can you be too old for braces?

No. Age is not a factor, only the health of your gums and bone which support your teeth. About 25% of our orthodontic patients are adults and that number is still growing!

Will it hurt?

Orthodontic treatment has improved dramatically. As a rule, braces make your teeth sore for a few days, but it is not painful. This annoyance can be relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever. Today's braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever. We use the latest in combination of miniature braces, titanium and termal titanium archwires, plus the highest quality of orthodontic materials in order to reduce discomfort and treatment time.

Can I still have braces if I have missing teeth ?

Yes. When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space. This will cause a functional, aesthetic or periodontal problem. Orthodontic treatment will correct and prevent these problems from happening and will also provide proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth.

Questions about the treatment

What is Phase I (interceptive treatment) and Phase II treatment?

Phase I or interceptive treatment usually starts when children have most of their baby teeth and a few of their permanent front incisors. This stage in development usually occurs about the age of seven. The goal of Phase I treatment is to intercept a moderate or severe orthodontic problem early in order to reduce or eliminate it. These problems include skeletal dysplasias, crossbites and crowding. Phase I treatment takes advantage of the early growth spurt and turns a difficult orthodontic problem into a more manageable one. This helps reduce the need for extractions or surgery and delivers better long term results and treatment options. Most Phase I patients require a Phase II treatment in order to achieve an ideal bite.

Phase II treatment on average occurs around 18 months after the completion of Phase I. Usually we are waiting for 10-12 more permanent teeth to erupt before Phase II begins. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve an ideal occlusion with all of the permanent teeth. Phase II treatment is a shortened and simplified stage of full braces.

What is full or comprehensive orthodontic treatment?

This is another name for orthodontic treatment in the permanent dentition at any age. It is more commonly used when a Phase I treatment was not performed.

Does everyone need a Phase I treatment?

Absolutely not! Only certain bites require early intervention. All others can wait until most if not all their permanent teeth erupt.

Can I wait on Phase I/interceptive orthodontic treatment until my child is older?

This is not recommended. If your child needs Phase I treatment this usually means that he has a difficult problem that requires attention now. If no orthodontic action is taken, treatment options become limited, more difficult, and the long term stability may be compromised. In addition, it may lead to extractions, oral surgery and increased expense.

What is the length or duration of orthodontic treatment?

Braces may be worn from 6 to 30 months, or longer, depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the problem, the patients cooperation, and the degree of movement possible.

What are the different types of braces?

There are the mini-diamond metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and 24 karat gold plated metal braces. Children and adolescents enjoy changing the appearance of their metal braces with colored ties at successive appointments. Color ties are available at no additional expense. Clear braces are popular with adults and the self-conscious individual. Gold braces are modern and stylish and are indicated with certain allergies to metal. As a parent or patient, you will have to decide which types of braces are best suited for you.