Early Treatment
Thank you for choosing Johnson and Collins Orthodontics as your child’s local Southlake, Bedford and Coppell, Texas orthodontist. Our practice works hard to ensure our younger patients feel both relaxed and comfortable during their visits at our practice. We believe that early treatment should be both fun and exciting for children, rather than an experience that they dread. Dr. Monte Collins and Dr. Grant Johnson offer a variety of treatment options to cater to the needs of every child that comes to our practice. Some of our most popular orthodontic treatments for kids include Damon Braces, Insignia Braces and more. Learn about the benefits of beginning early treatment below and feel free to contact us with any additional questions or concerns you may have.
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. 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; and reducing treatment time with braces.
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics are 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.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Dr. Johnson and Dr. Collins are committed to providing your child with the best Southlake, Bedford and Coppell, Texas orthodontic treatment around. We believe that beginning treatment no later than the age of seven can be extremely beneficial for your child’s oral health in the long run. If you are interested in beginning early treatment with Johnson and Collins Orthodontics, please contact us at one of our three locations and one of our staff members would be happy to assist you. We are always accepting new patients at our three locations, and we look forward to seeing both you and your child in our offices soon!
