What is the right age for an orthodontic check-up?

Interceptive Care

The American Orthodontic Association recommends that a child receive his or her first orthodontic examination no later than age 7. Early diagnosis and treatment, if needed, may eliminate the need for permanent tooth extractions or jaw surgery. Typical signs of the need for an orthodontic exam may include, but are not limited to, the early or late loss of teeth, difficulty in chewing, mouth-breathing, finger sucking, crowded teeth, jaw dysfunction, a sunken or protruding jaw or missing or displaced permanent teeth. Our initial exams and subsequent observation appointments are complimentary and are the most sensible means of ensuring proper oral health. 

Adolescents 

Orthodontics is more than straightening crooked teeth. An overbite, an under bite, a dysfunctional smile and a sunken or protruding chin all can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Proper tooth and jaw alignment are critical to achieving long-term oral health.

We feel that treatment at this time provides us with the greatest opportunity to achieve the best result. Adolescent children are searching for their identity and their way in life. Thus, treating at this time also allows us to provide encouragement and guidance as the child matures. 

Adults 

Many adults were unable to get orthodontic treatment during their childhood. As a result, they have simply lived with misaligned teeth or a dysfunctional bite most of their lives. Orthodontics can be rewarding to our adult patients. We find that our adult patients are very motivated. 

Teeth provide the support structure for the soft tissue of the lower face, including lips, cheeks, and marionette lines. By re-positioning the teeth and jaw, skin can appear tighter and lips can appear fuller. We can often achieve greater facial aesthetics without surgery or the extraction of teeth by creating a treatment plan utilizing appliances that can expand the jaw and re-position teeth and gums. 

Mesa                                                                                                     Gilbert

1635 North Greenfield Rd. Suite 103                                        1355 South Higley Rd. Suite 105

Mesa, AZ 85205                                                                         Gilbert, AZ 85296

T: 480-615-8888                                                                         T: 480-888-7711