TREATMENT  >>

 

TIMING

Early Evaluation and Treatment

While Drs. Middleton and Arthur can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation occurs at the first sign of an orthodontic problem or no later than age 7.

Early screening not only provides timely detection of orthodontic problems, it presents increased opportunities to provide more effective orthodontic treatment. If early orthodontic treatment is not indicated, Drs. Middleton and Arthur  will carefully monitor jaw growth and tooth development to advise you of the best time to initiate orthodontic treatment. She will treat conservatively, yet efficiently, and early treatment is only necessary in specific situations.

Either way, a timely evaluation will give you peace of mind, and that gives us all something to smile about!

Treatment for Adolescents

The age range of 11 to 15 years old represents the most common time for braces. By age 11 or 12, most people have a full set of permanent teeth and are therefore ready to begin orthodontic treatment. Because crooked teeth and bad bites rarely correct on their own, getting started with braces and using the individuals’ remaining adolescent growth has been proven to work best for most patients. Drs. Middleton and Arthur abide by the Orthodontic Oath, ‘to do no harm’.  Being parents, they treat every child as their own. Being adults, they treat every adult appropriately and professionally with the understanding of what can be accomplished.

Adult Treatment

Braces aren’t just for kids! 30-35% of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their smile. Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem, as well as improve the health of your teeth and gums. An incorrect bite or crooked teeth can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, and abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces. During the initial examination, Drs. Middleton and Arthur will evaluate your individual needs and develop a treatment plan that works best for you. A new smile can begin today.

 

The PDFs above are used with permission of the AAO.

 

Timing

Copyright 2001-2023 Middleton & Arthur Orthodontics is office to Dr. Rose Middleton, a respected and Board Certified Orthodontist, and Dr. Chad Arthur, serving Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Dr. Middleton is an Invisalign Preferred Provider. Site by Test Monki.

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