Early Treatment - Fowler Orthodontics
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 best result and the shortest treatment. 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 careful examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
What Are The Benefits Of Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
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 removal of permanent teeth
Reducing treatment time with braces
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 excessive spacing. Timely screening increases the possibilities for an incredible smile.
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.
Fowler Orthodontics
Address
Meridian, ID 83642
Address
(208) 887-1053
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. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If you are in need of treatment, Dr. Fowler will recommend an appliance specific to your dental needs. Some of the treatment options available include: Traditional braces, Clear braces and Invisalign.
Treatment times vary depending on your specific course of treatment, but with the new cutting-edge technology, the average treatment time is 18-24 months.
Brush your teeth by using a regular soft toothbrush. Brush down from the top and then up from the bottom on each tooth; always brushing away from your gums. Use a gentle sawing motion to work the floss on each side of the two teeth the floss is between. Be careful not to pull with too much force around the archwire.
That varies per patient but there is new technology that uses memory shape, heat activated wires that work without needing painful adjustments, decreasing the amount of office visits necessary to complete treatment. The average time between visits can range from 8-10 weeks. As you come close to finishing treatment, Dr. Fowler may want to see you more often, typically between 4-6 weeks during your last few months, to fine tune your final tooth movements.
The cost of your treatment will vary depending on your specific dental requirements. Once we complete a new patient exam and create a treatment plan for you, you will meet with a treatment coordinator to discuss the costs and payment plans available to you. We will work with you to create a payment plan that is tailored to your needs and budget.
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