Orthodontics: Treatment for Children & Adults
Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry offers orthodontics treatment for children, teens, and adults. Call (336) 286-0200 to schedule an appointment today.
Traditionally thought of as a treatment for adolescents, early prevention and treatment options are also available for children as young as seven years old. More adults are now seeking treatment as well, whether or not they had orthodontic treatment as young children.
Early Preventative or Treatment Orthodontics for Children
Early orthodontic treatment helps properly develop the jaw and corrects problems with the bite, such as a crossbite. Preventative treatment also helps make room in the mouth for permanent teeth, minimizing the chance of extractions later in life.
Does My Child Need Orthodontics?
Your child’s initial evaluation is to check whether early intervention is required, and early orthodontic treatment is rare.
Common signs that your child might require orthodontic treatment include:
- Loss of baby teeth too early or late
- Difficulty chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking after age 5
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth
- Abnormal bite
- Crossbite
- Crowded front teeth at age 7 or 8
What can you expect from early treatment?
- Enhanced facial symmetry
- Reduced need for extraction of adult teeth
- Space for unerupted or crowded teeth
- Reduced overbites
- Corrected underbites and crossbites
- Reduced risk of further complications once growth has abated
You can always trust our orthodontist to provide an honest recommendation for your child’s orthodontic care.
Orthodontics for Adults
The American Association of Orthodontics states that 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are over 21 years old. Adults are increasingly choosing treatments to maintain their oral health and improve their appearance, but whatever the reason, we have several options available to you.
Common Reasons For Adult Orthodontic Treatment
- Bite issues
- Teeth are crowded or spaced apart, making proper care difficult
- Jaw pain or pressure
- A desire for greater confidence
Orthodontic Options for Adults
The thought of a mouth full of metal wires and brackets is unpalatable to many adults. It often leads them to delay or forgo treatment altogether. Modern treatments are flexible to any preference, and traditional braces are one of many viable options.
- Traditional Metal Braces
- Clear or Ceramic Braces
- Invisalign
Differences Between Orthodontics for Adults and Children
While children’s jaws are developing, adult bones have stopped growing. Other differences relate to gum or bone loss and worn or missing teeth.
Adults need a higher level of care when it comes to their teeth, which is why we work with you to meet your needs with skill and attention to detail.
The Best Orthodontic Care in the Triad
Lake Jeanette Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry proudly serves Greensboro, NC, and surrounding areas. If you need orthodontic care or you are a parent looking to schedule their child’s first orthodontic evaluation, call us today at (336) 286-0200.