The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By this age, the six year molars and several permanent teeth in most children have erupted allowing Dr. Robles to effectively evaluate most developing orthodontic problems so parents can be informed ahead of time.
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as a child grows. In most people, after the permanent 6 year molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth actually decreases with age.
This is a very common question. Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for all student patients for after school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled six to twelve weeks apart, most patients miss very little school because of orthodontic appointments.
As a general rule, braces do not “hurt.” After some visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol can be used to ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel soreness at all. We often remind our patients, it does not have to hurt to work.
Yes. You can purchase a mouth guard specifically designed for braces at a sporting goods store. If you play a musical instrument, it will take your tongue a few days to adapt to the orthodontic appliances and should not, in most cases, stop you from playing.
Yes. Once treatment begins, very complete instructions and a comprehensive list will be provided regarding foods to avoid. Some of these foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods, i.e.; ‘snickers’, gum, caramel and taffy. Many emergency appointments, and at times, the cost to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following instructions regarding foods.
Yes. However, we do not require braces for every patient who visits our office. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
Phase One treatment is usually initiated to children between the ages of seven and ten. Phase One treatment usually takes about 12 to 18 months. There are two primary objectives for Phase One treatment. First, to try to develop the jaw, so that it will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and to try to properly relate the upper and lower jaws to each other. Secondly, to improve a child’s psychological self-image and self-esteem, both very important during their formative years.
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period of time following Phase One treatment is called “the resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption, are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed as to any future treatment recommendations.
Is it too late to have braces?
Over 30 percent of Dr. Robles’ patients are adults. In fact, orthodontic treatment for adults is one of the most gratifying areas of Dr. Robles’ practice for both patients and staff members. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces.
A balanced facial profile, straight teeth and a good bite are always the goal. Because today’s technology has resulted in advanced orthodontic procedures, the need for removing teeth has been drastically reduced.
Yes. A tooth with a crown and even those that had root canals will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth, and possibly even closing the spaces where the teeth are missing.
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19847 Century Blvd, Lobby B, Ste 215
Germantown, MD 20874
