Right Age for Care

When a patient becomes a part of our practice, we feel a responsibility to the entire family. In a continuing effort to provide quality orthodontics, we offer a comprehensive orthodontic examination to all family members at no charge. We see patients at all ages and prefer to do an initial exam at age 7 or 8, when the permanent teeth are starting to erupt. Early treatment can often minimize future orthodontic problems and maximize our treatment results.

As a family care provider, we welcome family members of all ages. If mom and dad have tooth-alignment problems that are causing concern, that may not have been addressed at an earlier age or are a result of relapse, we encourage them to take the opportunity to learn about their options in orthodontics. There is no obligation on your part to have treatment; it’s just our way of letting you know that we care about all of your smiles.

If we can be of service to any other members of your family, please call for a complimentary consultation.

Early Intervention

We believe that certain problems should be addressed in the early mixed dentition stage of a child’s growth, though the majority of problems can be better addressed during late mixed and early permanent dentition. The American Board of Orthodontists recommends that each child receive an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7.

Adolescent Treatment

Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during this time. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are erupted and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Adult Treatment

Adults seek treatment for many different reasons. Sometimes they were not able to receive orthodontic care during adolescence, or they may have experienced relapse from earlier orthodontic treatment. Whatever the reason, adult treatment may limited to address a specific problem or comprehensive to address a more complex situation. Adult orthodontic cases are often multidisciplinary, meaning that they involve not only the general dentist and orthodontist, but a periodontist and oral surgeon as well.