TYPES OF TREATMENT

Early Treatment (age 7-10) - Although it is possible to improve a person's smile at any age, there are some problems that can be prevented if caught early. A common example is severe crowding that, if left untreated, could increase the chances that adult teeth may need to be extracted later in adolescence. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a patient be seen for an orthodontic evaluation at the first sign of orthodontic problems and no later than the age of seven. At seven years old, the first adult molars have erupted, or come through the gums, and the adult front teeth have usually started to erupt as well. Because the transition from baby teeth to adult teeth has just begun, this is an ideal time to intervene if any issues are present such as crowding, crossbites or oral habits like thumb sucking. There is also a significant amount of jaw growth that occurs when the teeth erupt. If necessary, Dr. Todd can evaluate and use this opportunity to guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth.

Adolescent treatment (age 11-17) - You may have noticed many kids have braces when they are in their middle school and early high school years. There are several reasons that make this an ideal time to get orthodontic treatment. One of the biggest reasons is that all of the adult teeth are typically in by age 12 with the exception of the 3rd molars or "wisdom teeth". Therefore, it is fair to say that you can start braces at this age and be confident that your resulting smile will stay with you the rest of your life. This age is also a good window of opportunity because braces are "socially acceptable", and it is not as big of a deal to be in braces if most of your classmates also have them.

Adult treatment - It's never too late to get braces to help transform your smile! Even adults in their middle ages and beyond can benefit from orthodontics to help improve their appearance and correct common "bite" or jaw problems. Dr. Todd offers several treatment options for adults who do not want to wear traditional metal braces. A very popular option that many adults choose is ceramic braces which are nearly invisible because they are the same color as the teeth. Some adults don't want people to know they have braces, and a possible option in this case is lingual braces which are attached on the back side or tongue side of the teeth. Invisalign is another possible option for adults who would like to avoid traditional braces. Dr. Todd is certified in Invisalign and can discuss with you whether you are a good Invisalign candidate.

Surgical Orthodontics- also known as orthognathic surgery is sometimes recommended in patients who have jaw irregularities. In other words, surgical orthodontics straightens the jaw. The orthodontist works closely with an oral surgeon to devise a surgical treatment plan. Correction of a jaw irregularity with surgery can often improve breathing, eating, facial appearance and overall quality of life. When the jaws are moved so are the teeth, so braces are always done in conjunction with the surgery. Dr. Todd would only recommend surgery if a patient's bite is due to a jaw irregularity and can not be improved with braces alone. Often times, these patients also have facial esthetic concerns.