The Perfect Age For Braces

Kelly Orthodontics

When we think of braces, most of us think of teenagers. But nowadays, people of all ages are getting braces. So…what is the perfect age to start braces treatment?

Dr. Kelly can successfully correct most orthodontic problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that doesn’t mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact, the starting age may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Traditionally, orthodontic treatment begins when a child has lost most of his or her baby teeth, and a majority of the permanent teeth have grown in. That said, it is a good idea to get an orthodontic evaluation by the time a child is 7 years old. You may think that 7 years old is too early to put your child in braces, however, this interceptive approach can help Dr. Kelly spot potential orthodontic problems related to jaw growth and eruption of adult teeth before they get out of hand.

Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during a child’s teenage years. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are present and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Although childhood is a good time to make changes to the mouth and jaw, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment for missing or crooked teeth, TMJ, and more. As an adult, you might think that your options for having your teeth fixed are limited, but today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs.

There really is no perfect age at which you should first visit the orthodontist. The best choice for you will largely depend on the severity of your orthodontic problem. A visit to Kelly Orthodontics should happen when you feel it is needed. Often, your family dentist will be the one to recommend the visit.

If you are considering braces for yourself or your child, give Kelly Orthodontics a call and schedule your initial consultation. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will take the time to address your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through the treatment process.

Is Invisalign Right For You?

Kelly Orthodontics

When you think of orthodontics, you probably think of traditional metal braces. But metal braces are only one of the options when it comes to correcting your smile.

The Invisalign System is virtually undetectable and straightens your teeth without wires and brackets. Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using custom-made aligners created for you and only you. These aligners are smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible. Not only are the aligners invisible, but they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment.

Invisalign aligners gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements Dr. Kelly plans out for you. With the Invisalign System, you will achieve a great smile with little disruption in your daily life. You will wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move little by little. You will visit Dr. Kelly about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed instantly and easily. Invisalign makes it easy to eat whatever you want, whenever you want, and you never need to worry about your meals interfering with your orthodontic treatment.

If you want straighter teeth but don’t want the look of traditional metal braces, Invisalign may be the perfect option for you. Contact Kelly Orthodontics in St. Charles, IL to talk to us about Invisalign!

Did you know…

Only an orthodontist, like Dr. Kelly, who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign. Invisalign is designed to correct a variety of orthodontic problems in children, teens, and adults. However, Invisalign is not appropriate for everyone. After an initial examination, Dr. Kelly will determine if the Invisalign System is an effective treatment option for you.