For some parents that had braces as a child or adolescent, a vague memory of the experience may be in the back of their minds. However, much has changed in the profession of orthodontics over the past few decades and several common questions seem to come up on a regular basis.
First, people often wonder if they are too old for orthodontic treatment. When it comes to wearing braces, most professionals would respond that both children and adults wear them not only to develop a great smile, but also to correct teeth alignment issues that can lead to gum disease, wear and tear on the teeth or TMJ, or even early loss of teeth. Of course, some treatment options are not available to non-growing patients but alternative strategies exist when lack of growth is a concern.
People often also wonder what types of braces are available. Braces used for orthodontic treatment come in a variety of styles that include the traditional metal kind but also newer high-quality porcelain cosmetic brackets for the front teeth or Invisalign type aligners that straighten the teeth with a bit more comfort and less visibililty. While not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, just about anyone can wear traditional braces.
Additionally, people wonder what age is ideal for a child to be evaluated by an orthodontist. Visiting an orthodontist is something that is often done at an early age and the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children should be at least evaluated by an orthodontist by the age of 7. This first visit will help educate parents about normal growth and development for their child’s face, jaws, and teeth while screening for problems that need to be corrected sooner than adolescence.
Adults wonder if our orthodontists see adults and if they need a referral. Our orthodontists love seeing adults and can make an appointment with one of our orthodontists at any time. Adults may also be referred by a general dentist with a particular concern or may make an appointment themselves with the goal of improving smile appearance.
Many people wonder how long they will be in treatment. Our average treatment time is somewhere between 1.5 and 2.5 years, depending upon the patient problem set. Some treatments may be shorter and occasionally longer, but those are more realistically the exception to the norm.
And, of course, people always ask us if orthodontic treatment will hurt. Generally speaking, the discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment is very mild and more of a nuisance. Over time, your body becomes accustomed to the changes occurring. Modern braces, which we use in our office on every patient, have features that reduce treatment time and friction between the wire and the braces, which helps to greatly reduce discomfort.
The orthodontists at Pediatrics Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan are always available to address your questions or concerns. Should you have more questions or if you or your children are in need of an evaluation, please give us a call at 586-286-0700 to make an appointment.
About Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, the offices of Drs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan have specialized in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics since 1968. Our family-friendly office gives patients and families a more comfortable and consistent experience with dentistry from the very beginning. The pediatric dentists treat children from newborn to 18 years of age while our orthodontists provide care for both children and adults, including being an Invisalign preferred provider. The ability to treat all special needs patients reaches beyond our facility, which has treatment rooms available for children who require additional privacy. Valued hospital affiliations allow dental services to be performed at DMC Children’s Hospital when needed.
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan
39400 Garfield Rd., Suite 200
Clinton Township, MI 48038
586-286-0700
www.mychildsteeth.com
