Sometimes, it's obvious when someone needs to see an orthodontist: gaps in the teeth, crooked teeth, or other clearly visible orthodontic issues can serve as an indicator that it might be time for braces. But orthodontic issues aren't always so clear-cut, as conditions like crossbite can impair jaw development without always being so obvious. So how do you know when it's time to see an orthodontist? At Accorde Orthodontists, our mission is to help people of all ages in Maple Grove, Albertville, Champlin, & Rogers achieve a beautiful smile – so here are our tips on when it's time to see an orthodontist.
Starting Early
At a base level, every child should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, in keeping with recommendations from the American Association of Orthodontists. At this age, the back bite has grown in, which allows an orthodontist to see any current problems as well as issues that may develop into problems. While it may or may not be best to start treatment at this early age, evaluating early lets us monitor growth and choose the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment.
Braces for Teens and Adults
Without a doubt, the most common time to get orthodontic treatment is during adolescence, and there's a good reason for that. During the teenage years, we can take advantage of things like high metabolism, growth spurts, and the social acceptance of orthodontic treatment to make treatment with braces faster and easier. Plus, because the permanent teeth have grown in, changes made during adolescence will last a lifetime.
That said, we can move healthy teeth at any age, and more and more adults are discovering the magic of orthodontic treatment. More than a quarter of our patients are adults, and we can use exciting treatment alternatives like Invisalign to make adult orthodontic treatment easy and convenient. Getting a new smile provides a boost of confidence, happiness, and self-esteem that radiates through every area of personal and professional life, and adults that choose to get orthodontic treatment regularly tell us that their new smile has had a major positive impact on them.
Schedule a Consultation with Your Albertville & Maple Grove, MN Orthodontists
So when's the best time to see an orthodontist? Truthfully, it's anytime you aren't satisfied with your smile or wonder if you could have a healthier, more beautiful smile! And if you'd like to find out if orthodontic treatment may be right for you, the team at Accorde Orthodontists is here to help. Call us today at 763-425-9888 to learn more about our practice and treatment options, and don't hesitate to schedule a consultation online if you're interested in treatment. Working together, we can help you achieve a gorgeous new smile that lasts a lifetime!