INSURANCE BENEFITS BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR. IF YOU DON’T USE IT, YOU LOSE IT! 
Getting orthodontic treatment is a big step toward having a beautiful, healthy smile. We frequently get asked the question, “when is the right time to begin orthodontic treatment?” at Grand Ledge Smiles. The response is contingent upon a number of variables, such as age, oral health, and particular dental issues. In order to ensure timely and effective results, knowing when to begin orthodontic treatment can make all the difference. Consulting an experienced orthodontist in Grand Ledge, MI, can help determine the optimal time to start your orthodontic journey for the best results.
Let’s dive into orthodontics, what you need to know and what solutions we offer!
Ages For Orthodontic Treatment
Children: Early orthodontic intervention can be crucial during childhood. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), your child should have their first examination with an orthodontist as soon as an orthodontic issue is first identified, but no later than age 7. Why is this the case? Because a child often has enough permanent teeth by then, which allows an orthodontist to assess the jaws and developing teeth, which can yield a lot of useful information.
Teenagers: Although there are many other benefits to orthodontic treatment, teens’ self-esteem and self-image can benefit as well. A symmetrical smile promotes long-term dental health. Orthodontists can effectively correct alignment issues during the adolescent stage while the jaw is still malleable, which makes it an ideal time for treatments like braces or Invisalign®.
Adults: Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Adults who wish to straighten their teeth can also benefit from braces or clear aligners. According to the AAO, 1 in 3 orthodontic patients are actually adults. In many cases, orthodontic treatment can correct teeth and jaw misalignment issues.
Why Might You Need Orthodontic Treatment?
- Overcrowding: When the jaw is overcrowded, it can result in misaligned, crooked, or overlapping teeth because there is not enough room for all the adult teeth. Adults who did not have their overcrowding issue addressed early on can have our orthodontist resolve it as overcrowding is not just a problem for kids.
- Overbite & Underbite: A common orthodontic issue called an overbite occurs when the upper teeth disproportionately overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. When the lower teeth jut out past the upper front teeth, it’s known as an underbite.
- Open Bite: When the jaws are closed, open bites — which are defined by a space between the upper and lower teeth —can make it difficult to speak and chew and can also be unsightly. Adult open bites can be corrected in several ways by orthodontists, depending on the severity and underlying cause.
At Grand Ledge Smiles, we believe it’s never too late to work toward a smile you love. That’s why we proudly offer a variety of orthodontic solutions, including Invisalign, traditional and clear braces. Plus, we have two on-site orthodontists that are devoted to treating our patient’s smiles.
Whether you or your child need orthodontic support, you can count on our friendly team. Contact Grand Ledge Smiles for orthodontic care today!