Questions about Early Orthodontic Treatment Answered

As a child develops, one of the first things that parents may begin to worry about is the oral health of the child. We at Rawle Orthodontics are often questioned about what signs to look for to determine if a child may need orthodontic attention, and/or when should a child begin treatment. Each case is different, but Dr. Chrisopher Rawle answers these questions below:

When Is It Best to Begin Treatment?

In many cases, orthodontic issues can be detected early in life. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist at the age of 7 or earlier. During this check-up, an orthodontist can:

1. Detect a problem with your child’s bite early on.
2. Prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing.
3. Spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present and guide jaw growth.
4. Fix problems and correct harmful oral habits that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing, i.e., guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position, and create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips, and face.
5. Provide your child with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time. Even if your child is older than 7, it is never too late for a thorough examination with Dr. Rawle!

What Are the Treatment Options?

At Rawle Orthodontics we offer traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign:

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option and fun of adding colored ties (rubber bands) for a more unique, personalized, and colorful smile.

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth. Dr. Rawle will explain in more detail at your initial consultation if you are a candidate for clear braces.

The Invisalign System is a series of clear, plastic aligner trays that can be removed to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Invisalign is desirable because they are virtually invisible, easier to manage and care for due to their removable nature, and very comfortable. Dr. Rawle may explain to her patients that there are some drawbacks versus braces in certain situations – Invisalign may be less effective on extremely severe cases or may take longer to correct oral issues. However, our professional team at Rawle Orthodontics is experienced with Invisalign and eager to offer this option if your child is a candidate.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our Altamonte Springs, FL office. We look forward to meeting you!