early treatment

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.

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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 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

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.

Free Consultation
We would like to offer you a complimentary consultation at any of our offices located in Chicago, Plainfield/Joliet and Naperville, IL, so we can create a treatment plan to suit your needs.

Thumb sucking habit Treatment: Habit breaker
This is an appliance used to discourage a patient from sucking their thumb or thrusting their tongue. It is extremely effective. This 8 year old made this much improvement in 6 months and will continue to make progress until the appliance is out. It is very easy to get used to and the younger patients are used to it within one week!

Early Treatment Thumb Sucking Habit before and after

Underbite Treatment: Expander and Braces, 9-12 months
This 9 year old boy had a severe underbite of the front teeth where the top front teeth were actually behind the lower front teeth. His upper lip was collapsed and he could not bite into foods properly. Using an expander and braces for less than 12 months he had complete correction of all his issues. Needless to say he was thrilled!

Early Treatment Underbite before and after

Spaces with impacted teeth Treatment: Braces, 9-12 months
This 8 year old had a huge gap between her front teeth and the side teeth had no room to come into the mouth. Within 6 months with braces, the gap closed and the side teeth came in perfectly positioned.

Early Treatment Spaces with Impacted Teeth before and after

Open Bite Treatment: Braces 9-12 months
This 9 year old had a significant open bite from a previous thumb sucking habit. Within ONLY 12 months, the open bite completely closed using braces alone. Not only did this improve her ability to eat, speak and smile but her self esteem was greatly enhanced.

Early Treatment Openbite before and after