Orthodontic Screening in Greensboro, NC
Stay on top of your family’s orthodontic needs. Call us today at 336-286-0200.
The American Dental Association recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by age seven. At Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we monitor your child’s teeth from their very first visit to determine early on if orthodontic care is likely. When permanent teeth begin to appear around age six, we’ll also provide a full orthodontic screening to create an effective treatment plan for your child’s individual needs.
Who Benefits from an Orthodontic Screening?
Orthodontic screening isn’t only for children. Orthodontic treatment typically takes place during the teenage years since the teeth are still growing and easily guided. Adults looking to fix cosmetic imperfections also benefit from treatment plans determined by an orthodontic screening.
Treating Dental Conditions Through Orthodontics
Orthodontics address a variety of tooth and jaw issues. Teeth may not align correctly in the upper and lower jaw or might be too close together. Wearing braces can guide growing teeth into the correct positions, and a palatal expander may be used to create additional room.
Some common issues treated with orthodontics include:
- Crowding
- Crossbite
- Offset midlines
- Spacing
- Deep bite
- Openbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
Treating orthodontic issues early can make a huge difference down the road. Once bone growth stops in the late teens, the only corrective measure available maybe surgery. Getting your child’s teeth aligned before that happens can save them a lot of pain and expense as adults.
Other benefits of early treatment include:
- Fewer tooth extractions
- Improved oral hygiene
- Improved self-esteem
Once a patient gets used to an orthodontic device, the process of tooth correction requires little effort beyond a regular care routine. The benefits of orthodontic treatment far outweigh the inconvenience of getting used to a new system.
Making the Most of Your Orthodontic Treatment
Avoiding certain foods and returning for regular adjustment appointments is essential to a positive outcome.
Dental hygiene is important during orthodontic treatments as well. Brush teeth efficiently to prevent gum disease and cavities. Also, make sure the patient has regular visits to the dentist for cleanings to remove debris from around the brackets.
Braces or Invisalign: Which Method Is Best?
Some patients with braces struggle with dental hygiene. Invisalign clear aligners can be a good choice to avoid these issues. Unlike braces, clear aligners can be removed to brush and floss your teeth and then replaced.
Invisalign may not be as effective for teens simply because getting them to wear the aligners for a full 23 hours per day can be difficult. Teens may forget to put them back in or not like the way they look. When considering clear aligners for your teen after an orthodontic screening, make a careful assessment of their ability to wear the Invisalign aligners as recommended.
There’s nothing better than a healthy, beautiful smile. The experienced Lake Jeanette Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry team in Greensboro, NC, provides top-quality care for you and your family. Contact us today at 336-286-0200 to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening.