When it comes to your health and your smile, timing is everything, especially when it comes to orthodontic treatment options. One of the questions that parents frequently ask is: “What age should we begin orthodontic treatment?” The answer can differ from patient to patient, but there are some general principles that can help you determine the proper age to see an Coopersburg PA orthodontic specialist for an evaluation.
Early Assessment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get their first orthodontic check up at 7. This doesn’t necessarily indicate treatment will start then, but it will enable the orthodontist to track your child’s dental and jaw growth and development as his or her second set of teeth start coming in.

At this age, a skilled orthodontist in Coopersburg PA can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Identifying these issues early can sometimes avoid doing more invasive work later down the line.

Phase 1 Treatment

Sometimes kids between the ages of 7 and 10 will benefit from what’s referred to as Phase 1 treatment. This early attention can involve removable braces, space maintainers or devices that direct jaw growth. Phase 1 treatment is designed to establish an optimal environment for the permanent teeth to come in, and decrease the likelihood of requiring further extractions or surgery in the future.

This is especially useful for:

Crossbites or underbites
Severe crowding
Protruding front teeth
Problems speaking because of how your teeth fit together
The Teen Years

The majority of orthodontic treatment starts between the ages of 11 and 15. By this time, almost all the permanent teeth have erupted and any problems with the bite are more visible. This is also when most people get braces or Invisalign treatment, because the jaw and facial bones are still growing and it’s easier to adjust the teeth while they’re moving around.

A reputable orthodontist in Coopersburg PA will personalize a treatment plan to suit the needs of each teen, and can include traditional braces, clear braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign.

Is It Ever Too Late?

Although early scoring, diagnosis, prevention and treatment (including the use of facial masks and head gears) have their benefits, it’s never too late to improve your mouth. Today, adults of all ages are looking after themselves – and not just for cosmetic reasons. They are easier to clean and that means a lower chance of gum disease.” They might also solve problems such as jaw pain or wear on tooth enamel.

Ready for an Evaluation?

If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child or for yourself, the first step is scheduling a consultation appointment with an expert orthodontist Coopersburg PA. At Quaker Pointe Orthodontics, our staff provides individualized care in an inviting office setting, helping patients of every age achieve the beautiful, confident smile they’ve always wanted.

If you want to know more about dental braces Center Valley, please visit the link quakerpointeortho.com