Why Braces?

By the time your child turns two, all of his or her primary teeth will have come in. It is important that parents take children, especially at this young age, to the dentist for a check-up and to learn how to care for their children's teeth through proper oral hygiene and a good diet.

It is never too early for a child to be examined by an orthodontist. As soon as the parent or general dentists notices a problem - such as closed contacts of primary teeth (teeth bunched tightly together) or an abnormal position of the front teeth when biting down - an orthodontist should be consulted, as these conditions may reveal an underlying orthodontic concern.

Depending on the nature and severity of the problem, the orthodontist may decided to prescribe preventive treatment, interceptive treatment or tracking the continued grwoth and development of the child's teeth and jaw. Full orthodontic treatment is usually begun once all of the permanent teeth have come in (usually around age 12). We are aware that each child is different, and each child's treatment is tailored to meet the individual's needs.

Two Phase Treatment

The best age for an orthodontic evaluation varies from patient to patient. However, an orthodontic evaluation is suggested as soon as a problem is noticed by the general dentist or the child's parents. Sometimes problems appear as early as age four. From this evaluation, the orthodontist may choose to start some form of interceptive treatment (Phase I) or to carefully observe and track the continued growth and development of the child's teeth and jaws. Full orthodontic treatment (Phase II) is most commonly started when all of the permenant teeth have erupted (usually by the age of 12).

What If I'm Already Too Old?

You're never too old to be at your best! The latest advances in orthodontics now make it possible for adults to enjoy a healthy, new smile. Provided the teeth, gums and supporting bone are healthy, there is no age limit for those who wish to take advantage of orthodontic treatment, much of which can be provided by lingual (behind the teeth) or cosmetic (tooth-colored) braces. Many adults are able to wear braces without anyone knowing.

About 25% of our patients are adults who trust in our caring, personalized and professional treatment. Remember: a great smile is a life-long gift you can give yourself!

What Do Braces Have To Do With TMD?

Have you experienced headaches, stiff or sore neck, shoulder pain, grinding of the teeth, continual breaking of fillings or clicking and popping of the jaw joint? These may be symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a painful problem and potentially damaging dental disorder.

If you have these difficulties, have them looked at promptly. TMD should be corrected before it gets to an advanced stage and becomes more difficult - or even impossible - to treat.

In many cases, signs of TMD can be present with little or no discomfort. An annoying clicking or popping, "tiredness" of the jaw you're having could be TMD. Some people suffer for years from headaches of undetermined origin. In most instances, TMD-related headaches and other symptoms can be cured or significantly reduced through a specialized treatment program.