Early Orthodontic Treatment | Coral Springs, FL

Singer Orthodontics Early Intervention for Children header

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.

By age 7, developmental problems relating to facial growth or eruption of teeth can be corrected. Early intervention can move jawbones and chewing muscles into position, setting the stage for the most stable bite correction possible, while optimizing facial growth, and reducing the chance of tooth or gum injury. Timely screening and intervention of developing problems also reduces or simplifies the need for any later treatment and increases the chance for an incredible smile!

Preteens and Adolescent Treatment?
The traditional age to begin orthodontic treatment is between 10-13 years old and this is the preferred age to begin treatment if early interception is not necessary (i.e., as when the jaws themselves are "straight" and there are no serious eruption problems).

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; and reducing treatment time with braces.

5481 University Drive
Suite. 101
Coral Springs, Florida 33067
954-75-SMILE

Orthodontist Jay Singer of Singer Orthodontics, promotes Invisalign and Lingual braces (Invisible) for children and adults in the Florida areas of Broward County, Plantation, Parkland, Boca Raton, Westin and Ft. Lauderdale with an office in Coral Springs.