Early Orthodontic Treatment
Braces? “She’s too young for them” or “I’m too old for them” – these are not uncommon misconceptions held by people.
“Braces” fall into the category of orthodontic treatment and is just one of the more commonly used appliances (of many) that orthodontists can choose to address your dental issues.
Early Orthodontic Treatment:
When should children start orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7.
Early interceptive treatment typically begins around the ages of 7 to 9, when a child’s mouth is still growing, and most baby teeth are present. At this stage, orthodontists can identify and address issues such as crowding, misalignment, and bite problems before they become more severe. Early treatment can guide jaw growth, create space for erupting teeth, and potentially reduce the need for more extensive treatment later.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic intervention?
The main advantage of early orthodontic treatment is that it can correct developmental issues in their infancy, preventing them from worsening. This early intervention can improve the appearance and function of the teeth, reduce the risk of damage to protruding teeth, and increase the likelihood of achieving a balanced facial profile.
Additionally, addressing problems early can sometimes shorten the duration of later orthodontic treatments and potentially minimise the need for tooth extractions or surgeries.
What treatment options are available for early orthodontic treatment?
Common modalities of treatment include fixed appliances i.e. braces (partial or whole arch), removable appliances (expander plates, Invisalign First/Teen aligners) or functional appliances (Twinblock/ Activator/Maxillary protraction facemask). This list is not exhaustive, so please visit an orthodontist who will prescribe a suitable appliance for the issue at hand.
Teenage Orthodontic Treatment:
Will braces hurt? Will my diet need to change? Will I look uncool?
Braces are a common and effective treatment approach for teenagers, but there are several misconceptions that can cause unnecessary worry or fear. A common myth is that braces are painful throughout the entire treatment.
Discomfort may last up to a week or so after adjustments, but this is usually mild and temporary. Another misconception is that braces will severely restrict a teenager’s diet, but the truth is with a few adjustments, most favourite foods can still be enjoyed.
If appearance is a concern for the self-conscious teenager, there are less noticeable treatment options like ceramic braces or Invisalign clear aligners available. Orthodontic treatment is now commonly viewed as a rite of passage for many teenagers and the temporary inconvenience is an investment for the long-term benefit of a straight, healthy smile.
Adult Orthodontic Treatment:
Is orthodontic treatment effective for adults?
Yes, orthodontic treatment is still possible for adults (even in their 70s or 80s!) despite the misconception thatone may be “too old” for orthodontic treatment.
With advancements in orthodontic technology, more adults are seeking treatment to correct misaligned teeth, improve their bite, and enhance their overall smile. Treatments such as Invisalign clear aligners and ceramic braces are popular among adults because they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. While treatment may take a bit longer for adults than for children, the results can be just as successful.
What are the common concerns for adults considering orthodontic treatment?
Some adults may also require additional care for underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or missing teeth, before starting orthodontic treatment, but these challenges can be managed wholly at Smileworks as we have a multidisciplinary centre with various Specialists available.
Adults often worry about the visibility of braces, the length of treatment, and potential discomfort. However, modern orthodontic options, like clear aligners, offer a more discreet way to straighten teeth, making them a popular choice. Additionally, orthodontists can tailor treatment plans to accommodate adult lifestyles, addressing concerns about appearance and convenience.
This article is written by our Orthodontist, Dr Ada Low.
She’s currently practicing at Smileworks (Paragon Medical Centre, #11-11/12).