Three Common Questions about Visiting an Orthodontist

Taking care of your teeth is important for overall jaw and tooth health. Obviously, good oral health care includes the basics of brushing, flossing, and using fluoride. However, good dental care should also include working with an orthodontist. Following are three common questions about receiving orthodontic care:

• Why should I visit an orthodontic dentist?
• What age should a child first see an orthodontic dentist?
• Can adults get their teeth straightened?

Reasons for Visiting an Orthodontic Dentist

Most people think that orthodontics is simply a procedure needed to straighten crooked teeth. Therefore, they evaluate the situation based on how crooked the teeth are and whether or not a person will fit in socially with his or her current state of teeth. Orthodontics is so much more! One of the most important reasons to visit a dentist who has knowledge of orthodontics is to ensure the individual’s bite is correct and that the teeth align properly. This is important to maintain overall gum and jaw bone health as well as healthy teeth.

Age for First Visit

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first visit to an orthodontic dentist when they are seven years old. This recommendation holds even if the child is showing no signs of problems. The reason is because the jaw is still developing at this young age, and the dentist can evaluate whether or not any problems might be developing. Early detection can make it possible to correct problems before they become extensive.

Adults and Correction

Although you might see adults with braces, many individuals wonder if it really is okay or even effective for adults to get their teeth straightened. The answer is yes. It is true that younger children have an easier time getting corrections made. This is because their bones are not completely developed. However, correction is effective for adults. More than one orthodontist has patients who are between the ages of 26 and 45. They may even have a few patients who are in their 60s and 70s. There are many different types of procedures and appliances that can be used that are helpful for adults, including those that are clear and not as noticeable to others.