Dr. Tadej is highly trained in children’s orthodontics, preventative orthodontic treatment, and dentofacial orthopedics, or the guidance of facial development. While orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age, getting an early start assures a healthy and beautiful smile for life. Continue reading to learn more about how preventative orthodontics can benefit you and your child.
Warning Signs it is time to see an Orthodontist
Recognize any of these early warning signs?
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Finger sucking or other oral habits
- Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
- Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or are recessed
- Speech difficulty
- Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Protruding teeth
- Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Grinding or clinching of teeth
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it may be time to schedule an evaluation with an Orthodontist.
When is the best time to begin orthodontics for my child or teen?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal age 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.
What are the benefits of early an orthodontic evaluation?
An early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why is age 7 considered the ideal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
What are the advantages of preventative treatment?
Some of the most direct results of preventative treatment are:
- Reducing treatment time with braces
- We can create 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
Is your child or teen a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not just for improving the look of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Why should bad bites be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions 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.
- Cross bites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
- Open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.
If you have any questions regarding the material above, or orthodontic treatment in general, please give our Bakersfield office a call. Our friendly staff will be glad to assist you, or email us at Info@TadejOrthodontics.com after office hours.
Dr. Tadej also offers early orthodontic treatment and braces to children and teens in Tehachapi, Delano, Shafter, Taft, and Wasco in Kern County California.