When to Visit The Orthodontist

Early Treatment (Ages 7-10)

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests an initial orthodontic evaluation at age 7: Why?

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment, as different problems are better treated at different ages. 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 we can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment. However, a short “Phase One” treatment is sometimes needed between ages 7-10 to help ensure healthy growth and development. At your child’s dental visits, your dentist should be able to tell you when the optimal time might be to see an orthodontist.

What makes this the optimal time for screening?

By the age of 7, the first adult molars have erupted, or come through the gums, establishing the bite of the back teeth. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships, as you bite and slide your teeth around. Also, the presence of erupting incisors (front teeth) can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or overly-gummy smiles.

What is Phase One (early) Treatment?

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment usually lasts about 6-12 months. While the ultimate goal of orthodontic treatment with children is the elevation of self-esteem and self-confidence, the primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant skeletal problems to prevent them from becoming more severe. This is typically reserved for width discrepancies between the two jaws, bony asymmetries, or Class III growth tendency (the tendency for the lower jaw to outgrow the upper jaw).

Why screen by age 7?

The posterior bite is established when the first molars (permanent back teeth) erupt, or come up through the gums, around age six. At this time, Dr. Henson can evaluate the relationship of both the front and back teeth, as well as discover any functional shifts that may occur when the jaws slide and the teeth come together. Because the incisors (front teeth) will be erupting around this age, certain problems like crowding, deep bites, open bites thumb or finger sucking habits, and some facial asymmetries can be detected early.

For some, a timely screening will lead to significant treatment benefits; for most, this initial screening will provide a guide for a long-term treatment plan.

The benefits of early treatment

For those patients who have clear indications for early intervention, early treatment presents the opportunity to:
• Influence jaw growth in a positive manner.
• Harmonize width of the dental arches.
• Improve eruption patterns.
• Lower risk of trauma to protruded upper incisors.
• Correct harmful oral habits.
• Improve aesthetics and self-esteem.
• Simplify and/or shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics.
• Reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth.
• Improve some speech problems.
• Preserve or gain space for erupting permanent teeth.
Numerous clinical research trials have demonstrated that untreated malocclusions (an improper bite) 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 or being knocked out. Cross bites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. And, open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontic treatment does more than make a beautiful smile: it creates a healthy, functioning bite.

Adolescent Treatment:

The pre-teen and adolescent years represent an ideal time to firmly solidify that glowing smile! When all or almost all adult teeth have erupted, Dr. Henson will be able to work to create the coolest smile in town! Even if you didn’t have a screening as a child, now is the perfect time to have an evaluation.
Who hasn’t seen their friends walking to class sporting their school or holiday colors across their teeth? These are not the painful, bulky braces your parents wore in the 1960’s or 1970’s! Today’s braces can be decorated with cool elastic colors, or be nearly invisible – the color of “ice”. Every smile is unique and spectacular, and you get to help Dr. Henson decorate your smile exactly as you like. Dr. Henson is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that is truly remarkable and lasts a lifetime!

Adult Treatment:

Who is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Were you the negligent teenager who refused to wear her retainer after orthodontic treatment or were you the one never allowed that glorious opportunity to sport a mouth full of metal down the school halls? Have you noticed that your teeth have continued to change as you’ve gotten older? Well, now is your time to bring back the healthy, beautiful smile!
Whether or not you’ve had braces before, you could be a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, if you have healthy gums and good bone structure around your teeth. And, the bonus is that these are not the painful, bulky metal braces of the 1960s and 1970s anymore. Today’s braces can be nearly invisible – the color of “ice”- or be completely clear, like Invisalign. You can also sport any color elastics on your braces to match your wardrobe, season, or sporting event. Why not start the road to a healthier, happier, smilier you today? After all, we are hoping you leave smiling with confidence!

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

A smile can be improved at any age. As a child, early orthodontic screening and treatment can lead to dramatic improvement in long-term oral health, as well as increased self-esteem and confidence. But, braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Adults, with healthy gums and bone structure, can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. At PacificNW Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatments that are designed for all age groups.
Orthodontic treatment as an adult can dramatically improve the health of your teeth and gums, as well as personal appearance and self-esteem. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, and abnormal wear of tooth enamel surfaces. Malocclusions, or bad bites, occur as a result of tooth misalignment or jaw discrepancies and can affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Dr. Henson uses the latest technology in orthodontic techniques and appliances, including metal braces, clear braces, as well as clear aligners, like Invisalign®, which are primarily used for milder cases of tooth movement. He will work with you to choose the most appropriate appliance to fit your needs.

Dr. Henson thoughtfully offers the following to his patients who seek results later in life:
• A separate Adult Treatment Room for patients who prefer privacy
• Clear brackets in addition to the traditional stainless
• Invisalign™ treatment for limited tooth movement and treatment of relapse.
• State of the art technology which means minimal discomfort during tooth alignment
• Retainer treatment for minor tooth movement
• Braces on upper or lower arch only (limited treatment goals)
• Technically proficient and friendly orthodontic team