Orthodontist Serving Yarmouth, Portland, Windham, Gray and Gorham, MA

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period 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 orthodontic evaluation?
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 optimal 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 is Phase I (interceptive) treatment?
Phase I treatment generally begins around age 7 when a child has their full set of baby teeth and a few of the permanent front incisors have already erupted. This interceptive treatment phase is important for those with moderate to severe orthodontic problems, as it can control the problem and often reduce the treatment time in braces later or eliminate the problem completely.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

• Creating 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
• Reducing treatment time with braces
  

What is Phase II treatment?
Phase II treatment will come several years after Phase I treatment. Phase II treatment is started once the child has more of his/her permanent teeth, normally around the ages of 12 or 13. This final treatment stage helps the child attain an ideal bite after all of the permanent teeth have erupted.