WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD GET AN EXAM?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommend an orthodontic examination at age 7 to determine if there are any major problems. This does not mean that treatment will begin at this age. If no major problems exist, we will monitor your child's dental development until most permanent teeth are in place, at which orthodontic treatment may be started.

WHEN SHOULD I START TREATMENT?

Starting orthodontic treatment early does not necessarily lead to better results, and is not routinely recommended by Dr. Dau. Treating early (age 7–9) with braces will straighten the front teeth and may improve a child's self-confidence. However, a second phase of treatment with braces at age 12–14 will most often be required to straighten the rest of the teeth and correct the bite. It is best to treat only once, however there are a small number of young patients with complex problems that may require some early intervention. Our philosophy is to be as conservative as possible to limit time in treatment while being sensitive to individual patient needs.

FIRST PHASE TREATMENT

Early orthodontic treatment (Phase I) can be started on certain types of problems before all permanent teeth are in place. Treatment may involve the use of braces or appliances such as expanders to guide the growth of young bones and/or create a better environment for adult teeth as they emerge. Early treatment is recommended for problems such as a narrow upper jaw, crossbites, severe protrusions or impactions. Treatment may last 6–12 months.

SECOND PHASE TREATMENT

If during the adolescent period (age 12–14) permanent teeth erupt into poor position or jaw discrepancies exist, further treatment (Phase II) will be required. Most early treatment will require a second phase of treatment. Phase II involves placing braces on all permanent teeth to move them into their ideal position. Treatment may last 12–24 months.

COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT

If early treatment is not indicated, the patient will be placed on observation until most of the permanent teeth are in place. Comprehensive treatment involves using braces to straighten teeth along with utilizing elastics or appliances to correct bite discrepancies. Orthodontics treatment during the adolescence period allows us to take advantage of the potential jaw growth of the patient to move the teeth and jaws more efficiently, leading to more successful treatment.