At Tweed Smilecare we believe that early intervention is the key to less invasive Orthodontic treatments that may need to be done in the future. Dr Steve Potts advises that it is crucial for children from 8 years of age be assessed. This will involve a regular check up and have a space alignment done. After such an examination has been carried out Dr Steven Potts will be able to provide you with essential information, regarding your child’s teeth and future dental treatments that may be required.
Before adult teeth erupt, it may be possible to guide them into the correct positions. It's common, for example, for the dental arch (upper or lower jaw) to be too small to accommodate all of the teeth.
Early intervention you can take advantage of the fact that a child's jaw is still growing, a device called a, palatal expander, may be used to enlarge the child's jaw, once the arch is the ideal size there is a much greater chance the adult teeth will emerge where they should.
A few decades ago, the solution for crowding was to extract some of the adult teeth followed by the use of fixed braces to move the teeth into a desired position.
Children who undergo orthopaedics may still need braces, retainers or other orthodontic appliances later but this pre-treatment can reduce the severity of the problem, possibly avoiding the extraction of adult teeth in the future and reducing the amount of time in fixed braces.
Alignment problems with your teeth and jaw can be the cause of a range of oral and general health issues including headaches, neck, shoulder and back pain. Clenching and grinding of teeth, known as bruxism can cause cracking and chipping in your tooth enamel and lead to uneven wear of your tooth surface.
Orthodontic treatments have advanced significantly over the recent past and are not just being prescribed for children, as many adults opt for orthodontic treatment as a solution to problems stemming back to their childhood.
The main appeal to modern orthodontics is that uncomfortable heavy metal braces are now not the only option for you or your children to achieve your perfect smile. Many different alignment devices are available and include fixed and removable braces, moulded plates, and tooth coloured moulds which are virtually invisible, enable both adults and children to enjoying the benefits of orthodontic treatment therapy.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms that may indicate an alignment problem, the team from Tweed Smielcare will conduct a thorough exam focussing on your teeth and jaw alignment. If there is any signs indicating misalignment we will refer you to our specialist orthodontist for further examination and treatment options.
Call today to arrange an assessment with Dr Steven Potts.
