Have you been wanting braces but are concerned you’re too old? Is your child showing signs of needing orthodontic treatment, but you’re worried they’re too young? Don’t worry — About Faces & Braces is here to tell you what the best age to get treatment is!
Who Qualifies For Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is beneficial for patients of all ages! Though braces are often associated with teenagers, adults and children also qualify! With such a wide age range of potentially qualifiable people, how do you know when it’s the right time to see an orthodontist? Luckily, there’s no best age to receive treatment; it all depends on your alignment needs. Many variables in life and your unique orthodontic situation can affect your decision to get treatment.
For adults, we suggest seeking treatment when your dentist or other medical professional refers you to an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists state that children should see an orthodontist by age seven for early evaluation, and we encourage parents and guardians to set up initial appointments even if another medical or dental professional did not refer them.
What Are The Benefits?
Orthodontic care has many benefits beyond transforming the aesthetics of your smile!
- Easier to perform oral hygiene
- Decreased or eliminated pain in the jaw, neck, and head
- Improved oral health
- Improved chewing abilities
- Broadened nasal passages for easier breathing
- Better digestive health
- Less wear and tear on the enamel
- Improved mental and physical health
- Improved speaking abilities
- And more!
What Are The Treatment Options?
Our team at About Faces & Braces is proud to offer the entire family various treatment options for a broad range of needs in Springfield, Clarksville, Nashville, and surrounding areas. Let’s check out some of the possibilities.
- Metal Braces — Don’t let the phrase “traditional treatment choice” deter you from considering this option! While traditional in style, the technology and technique of metal braces have been updated over the years, creating an effective, durable, and comfortable treatment option for patients of all ages. We can fix even the most complex cases quickly and efficiently using metal brackets, wires, and ligatures.
- Clear Braces — Though very similar to their metal predecessor, clear braces have a very clear difference (pun intended)! Instead of metal brackets, clear braces use a tooth-colored polycrystalline blend of materials to create the illusion of transparent brackets. Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, can treat all the same cases as metal braces; however, their overall treatment time might take longer because they cannot handle the intense wire tightenings their metal counterpart can. Because they require extra care, we recommend clear braces for adults and older teenagers.
- Invisalign — Removable braces have grown in popularity over the years, and Invisalign is the leading in-office brand — and for good reason! Their custom clear aligners give patients a nearly invisible aesthetic without sacrificing the quality of their results. Unlike fixed metal and clear braces, you will not have to change your diet or oral hygiene routine. Invisalign for Teens line includes features beneficial to younger patients, including replacement trays, the compliance dot, and eruption spots.
- Palate Expanders — Sometimes, your upper jaw is not wide enough to accommodate all your teeth. Fortunately, we can fix that using a palate expander! These appliances carefully push the two halves of your upper jaw apart, and your body makes the expansion permanent by filling the gap with some newly formed bone! Isn’t that cool? If necessary, expander treatment can include braces. Children and adults can qualify for palate expanders.
- Two-Phase Treatment — This treatment option is for younger patients. Their younger age allows us both time and the ability to administer treatment in two phases, enabling parents and guardians to save money and children to enjoy straight teeth at a younger age. This treatment option can help children avoid more uncomfortable treatments or health issues in the future. Two-Phase Treatment can use one or more of the above-mentioned orthodontic devices, as well as a Herbst appliance, space maintainers, and more.
There are many ways to improve smiles, and it’s important to remember that what works for another person might not work for you. That’s why Dr. Candice and Dr. Shawn create personalized treatment plans for every patient based on their lifestyle, orthodontic needs, and aesthetic appearance.
Discover What Orthodontics Can Do For Your At About Faces & Braces!
If you are ready to begin orthodontic treatment or are curious about your child’s options, please schedule a free consultation with us in Springfield, Clarksville, or Nashville. We would love to help you and your family achieve the beautiful, functional smiles of your dreams, no matter your or your child’s age!