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.
Dr. Jeff Collins, a local orthodontist, stresses that early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Sensible intervention and observation in his younger patients, allows Dr. Collins to guide growth and development, which prevents serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Collins can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Orthodontic treatment has several important benefits:
- 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
Your child's secret to a great smile (and less time spent in braces!) is early interceptive orthodontic treatment. This means bringing your child in for an orthodontic exam as early as age 7 – while his or her teeth and facial bones are still growing.
Dr. Collins’ practice, Parker Orthodontics, offers complimentary consultations to assess and discuss your child’s orthodontic needs. To find out more information about Parker Orthodontics or schedule your free evaluation, please visit www.parkerorthodontics.com or call (720) 279-1914.
