Contrary to what some people may believe, adults can benefit from and need orthodontic treatment. Even if an adult receives some form of teeth straightening treatment as a child, the teeth can gradually shift back out of alignment without the proper care after. In other cases, children who receive orthodontic treatment earlier in life can receive the groundwork for the teeth to emerge in the appropriate alignment.
Orthodontics for kids and adults is available at Dr. Gregory K. Shell in Granite Falls and the surrounding area. Along with braces, we offer multiple options to help patients straighten their teeth for a uniform smile. We can help patients find the orthodontic treatment option that is right for their needs.
Call us at 828-386-9811 to schedule an appointment and learn more about our orthodontic services.
Since one’s adult permanent teeth emerge gradually over time, there are different types of orthodontic treatment better suited for patients, depending on their age. The orthodontic services we offer include:
While baby teeth will eventually fall out to make way for the permanent ones, it is still crucial to ensure the baby teeth receive the proper care. In some cases, children may not have enough room in their mouth for their teeth and begin to experience crooked teeth due to this overcrowding. The American Association of Orthodontists, states that it is essential to seek an orthodontic examination for a child no later than 7 years of age.
With early orthodontic treatment, we can detect the early signs of an underbite, crossbite, overcrowding, gaps in a smile, and more. We may recommend space maintainers or a retainer to help prepare the mouth for the adult teeth or different orthodontic treatment in the future.
Kids' orthodontics is similar to early orthodontic treatment in that it strives to help prevent oral health issues from developing. Kids' orthodontics may follow previous orthodontic treatment. One such treatment option involves the child wearing braces. By straightening the teeth early in life, we can help children have a better chance of maintaining a healthy smile in the future.
We can also continue to closely monitor various jaw alignment issues to ensure they do not hinder a child’s development of speech.
Since teens are older and slightly more responsible, they can be candidates for clear aligners along with braces. While braces are a sturdy and effective option for straightening teeth, clear aligners are removable and have a more discreet appearance. In many cases, children will wear braces more than once before they are 14.
We also offer clear braces for teens, to provide a clear bracket system that is less noticeable.
Adults have the benefit of several different options for straightening their teeth, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners. Since adults are more responsible and can take better care of their orthodontic appliances, there is also a higher chance of the treatment staying on schedule.
We can also help patients maintain their straighter set of teeth by having them wear a retainer following the treatment.
To learn more about our orthodontic services, call us at 828-386-9811 and schedule an appointment.
Dr. Gregory K Shell is located at
4558 Hickory Blvd
Granite Falls, NC
28630
At what age should my child wear braces?
In most cases, a child will be a candidate for braces around 10 to 14 years of age. However, the first orthodontic appointment should occur when the child is around 7-years-old. We will determine when the child’s teeth are ready for braces or what other types of treatment they will need.
Does adult orthodontics limit what I can eat?
While braces can include dietary restrictions, adults can choose clear aligners. These aligner trays are removable, so a patient can take them out before eating and then place them back on the mouth after the meal. The patient must brush their teeth before placing them back in the mouth, so bits of food are not visible.
How long will I need to wear braces for?
Regardless of age, the length of time a patient will need to wear braces can vary anywhere from one and a half to over two years. If the patient does not take proper care of their teeth or damages the brackets during treatment, they will prolong the process. We can determine the length of treatment during the appointment.
Can I remove clear aligners during sports?
Yes. You can remove your aligner trays when participating in a sport so long as the trays remain in the mouth for around 22 hours per day. You can also remove the aligner trays when you eat, brush your teeth, take pictures, attend meetings, go on a date, give a presentation, and more.
What do I do if my child damages their braces?
Call us right away. We will schedule you into the next available appointment and see your child as soon as possible. We will also go over how to prevent the broken part from irritating the gums. We can replace any damaged wires during the appointment.