What are Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial abnormalities. Orthodontics aims to correct the alignment of the teeth and jaws to improve oral function and overall aesthetics. Dr. William Cherry can help you achieve a straight and happy smile with orthodontic tools like braces, aligners, and retainers. It’s not uncommon for orthodontic treatment to significantly enhance a person’s self-esteem, as they can confidently smile with well-aligned teeth.
Early Intervention
Initiating orthodontic intervention, commonly known as interceptive orthodontics, can begin as early as 6 or 7 for teenagers. During this developmental stage, teeth are still forming, and the jaw is in the midst of growth. This opportune period makes addressing specific conditions, such as crowding, easier. It’s also an ideal time to identify issues related to jaw growth and enhance the alignment of the jaws. Early orthodontic treatment in adolescence allows orthodontists to manage and guide the jaw’s growth pattern, rectify undesirable oral habits, direct permanent teeth into more favorable positions, and enhance the alignment of the lips. Consequently, this early intervention can streamline subsequent treatment phases, especially after all the permanent teeth have erupted.
Who Needs Correction?
Not all teens need orthodontic correction, but it’s essential to have an orthodontist evaluate your orthodontic health at an early age. Most orthodontic corrections are done between the ages of 10 and 14 when the teeth are still growing and the jaw is still developing. However, there is always time to get braces. Improving your smile is an investment in your long-term dental health, and there’s no age limit for a healthy smile.
Types of Braces for You
There are various types of braces to choose from. By speaking with Dr. Cherry, you can decide the best choice for your smile.
- Traditional Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are the most common type. They are made of metal brackets and wires and are the most affordable choice.
- Ceramic Braces: They work similarly to metal braces but are less noticeable due to their tooth-colored brackets and wires.
- Invisible Braces: Invisible braces, like Invisalign, are clear aligners that can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are metal braces placed on the back of your teeth, making them harder to see from the front.
We understand that, as teens, the need for braces is never a happy feeling. However, with the different types we offer, you can straighten your smile in various ways. As you begin your braces journey, we encourage our young patients to ensure they are caring for their smile and doing what they need to, and your braces treatment will get done much more quickly.
Orthodontics for Teens in Bethlehem, PA
Hearing that you need to get braces in your teens is a phrase no one ever wishes to hear. However, if you need braces, we at Cherry Orthodontics can help you get a happy smile sooner with our advanced braces. No matter what type of braces you wish for or which will work best, our dentist can help you achieve a straight and sparkling smile.
When treated early, orthodontic correction is most effective, but there is always time to invest in your dental health. Fix the alignment of your smile and schedule a consultation with Dr. Cherry today to see the best braces for you and your smile.