The primary reason a person sees an orthodontist is to straighten their teeth. While braces and aligners are both popular orthodontic treatments, an orthodontist in Downers Grove also pays particular attention to jaw positioning; jaw positioning may actually be the most important reason to see the orthodontist at an early age.
When your teeth or jaws are misaligned this can result in crowed teeth, an under or overbite, crossbite or open bite. These malocclusions often lead to uneven tooth wear, speech problems, eating problems and undue stress on the jawbone and gums.
When should your child first see an orthodontist?
An orthodontist in Downers Grove suggests to parents that their children first visit should be when they are between six and nine. Going to the orthodontist does not necessarily mean they need orthodontic care and treatment. The early visit s for a thorough examination, the orthodontist will examine the jaw position and check for impacted, missing or crowded teeth. Then and only then will the decision be made if early intervention is required or treatment can be delayed.
Usually, a child sees the first molars break through at about age seven, by the age of 12 dental growth is complete in most children.
When should adults see an orthodontist?
Braces are no longer only for youngsters, nor is the need for correction limited only to children. Adults also need orthodontic treatment to correct the same problems with bite as children do. When adults decide to have treatment, the result is an increase in confidence and a far better smile. It is no longer necessary to use metal brackets and wires, modern orthodontics have other solutions including clear braces, lingual braces and clear aligners. These options make it difficult to tell that the person is undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Regardless of age, an orthodontist in Downers Grove can align and straighten teeth using a number of different approaches.
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked you should arrange to visit an orthodontist in Downers Grove. You are welcome to make an appointment with Oakbrook Orthodontics.
