At Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages, from children to adults. Whether you’re considering early intervention for your child, seeking treatment for your teenager, or exploring options as an adult, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Early Treatment
Certain orthodontic issues can be addressed early to help guide the growth and development of your child’s teeth and jaws. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist by the age of seven, as this is when their permanent teeth begin to emerge and bite patterns can be evaluated. Early treatment can prevent future problems and make room for adult teeth. Some signs that early intervention may be necessary include difficulty breaking thumb-sucking habits, speech impediments, abnormal bite patterns, protruding teeth, or problems with chewing or breathing. By addressing these issues early on, we can help prevent more complex treatments down the road.
Two-Phase Treatment
For some children, a two-phase approach to treatment may be recommended. Phase One focuses on correcting jaw and bone issues while the child’s teeth are still developing. This early intervention allows us to ensure proper jaw alignment and create more space for the adult teeth to come in. After Phase One, the child will take a rest period to allow their permanent teeth to finish coming in. During this time, we may monitor the eruption of their teeth and plan for Phase Two, which involves the use of braces to align the teeth and ensure they function properly. By splitting treatment into two phases, we can achieve optimal results with minimal intervention later on.
Teen Orthodontics
Teens often benefit from traditional metal braces, which are not only effective but can be customized with colorful ties at each appointment for a fun, personalized experience. At Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics, we offer small, comfortable metal braces that provide excellent results. Another great option for teens is Invisalign Teen®, which uses clear, removable trays to straighten teeth discreetly. Invisalign Teen® is a fantastic choice for teens who want to straighten their smile without anyone noticing.
Adult Orthodontics
It’s never too late to improve your smile! In fact, one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Adults may seek orthodontic treatment for a variety of reasons, including cosmetic concerns, improving bite alignment, or addressing dental health issues like crowded teeth, jaw pain, or difficulty cleaning between teeth. Adult treatment may take a bit longer than treatment for younger patients, as the bones in the jaw are no longer growing and healing is slower. Some adults may also require surgery to align the jaw properly. At Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics, we offer several options for adults, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign®, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and treatment needs.
Your Smile, Your Health
Orthodontics is about more than just creating a beautiful smile—it’s also about improving your overall oral health. Crooked or spaced teeth can make it harder to clean your teeth effectively, leading to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Straightening your teeth not only gives you a healthier smile, but it can also boost your confidence and improve your quality of life.
No matter your age, Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics is here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. To find out which treatment option is right for you or your child, request a free consultation with us today!
