AT WHAT AGE SHOULD A CHILD HAVE AN ORTHODONTIC EXAMIATION? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children should have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Dr Lyons believes that intercepting an early orthodontic problem in its early stages will lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. WHY ARE CHILDREN BEING EVALUATED AT SUCH AN EARLY AGE? Early diagnosis and treatment can guide erupting teeth into a more favorable position, preserve space for the permanent teeth and reduce the likelihood of fracturing protruded front teeth. Also, early treatment may shorten treatment time; make treatment easier and in some cases less expensive. IS ORTHODONTIC CARE EXPENSIVE? Orthodontic therapy may eliminate the need for other medical and dental treatment. The physical and psychological benefits usually last a lifetime, which makes orthodontics one of the best investments in health care and quality of life. WHAT IS THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF EARLY TREATMENT? Appearance has been related to popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style and self-esteem. Orthodontic therapy may lessen the likelihood that a child will be picked on by other children. Treatment may reduce appearance-consciousness and the emotional scarring that can occur during critical developmental years, Also, as adolescents enter the sensitive teenage years, they become far less receptive to orthodontic therapy.IN ADDTION TO ESTHETIC IMPROVEMENTS, WHAT ARE SOME OTHER BENEFITS OF ORTHODONTIC THERAPY? Additional benefits may include better function improved cleaning ability, more favorable wear patterns and greater longevity of natural teeth. WHY IS THE GROWTH SPURT AT PUBERTY SO IMPORTANT IN ORTHDONTICS? This is the time when much of the development of the face occurs. Treatment during this period allows Dr. Lyons to favorably influence the facial profile in a growing child. Once growth of the facial bones is complete, correction of skeletal discrepancies usually requires surgery. TO OUR MEDICAL AND DENTAL PROFESSIONALS, IF I'M NOT SURE ABOUT THE NEED FOR ORTHODONTIC, HOW SHOULD THE PATIENT BE MANAGED? If in doubt, refer. If you notice a problem and refer to a specialist, your legal and professional responsibilities are fulfilled. Also, an early referral can avoid more complex problems that may worsen with time. AT WHAT AGE IS A PATIENT TOO OLD FOR ORTHDONTICS? Patients who have teeth and healthy supporting structures are never too old for orthodontic therapy. Age is not a factor. HOW CAN I TACTFULLY APPORACH AN ADULT PATIENT WHO COULD BENEFIT FROM ORTHODONTICS? As the question: "Are you happy the appearance of your teeth?" The answer will be your guide to further development of the conversation. WHY ARE ADULTS SEEKING ORTHODONTICS IN INCREASING NUMBERS? Many adults are receiving orthodontic care that was not available to them as children, they realize that improving the health of their mouths and the attractiveness of their smiles and facial appearances can result in changes for the better in their personal, social, and professional lives, Technical advance have also had an impact on adult therapy. WHAT ARE SOME OF THOSE ADVANCES? Advanced technology has produced small tooth colored brackets that are barely noticeable. Specially designed wires are more comfortable, can speed up treatment, and may decrease the number of necessary appointments. New retainers can be placed where they do not show. Also, advanced surgical techniques now allow treatment of many skeletal problems after growth is completed. BOTTOM LINE: You already know that braces straighten teeth. But what you may not know is that a beautiful smile is just one of the benefits orthodontics has to offer. Bringing teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment not only produces a great smile, but a healthy one as well. Straight teeth simply function better and are easier to clean. And last, but far from least, is the increased confidence and self-esteem that a healthy smile provides. This psychological benefit can be a significant factor in the decision to undergo treatment and is often listed as a patient's #1 treatment goal. A beautiful smile is a pleasure to own a pleasure to see. So remember: an attractive smile is just the start. Improved oral health and general well-being are important treatment goals as well.
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