When Are Orthodontic Treatments Necessary or Recommended?

orthodontics Fort Lauderdale, FL

Orthodontics can significantly improve one’s smile, as well as their oral and dental health. It is difficult to say when treatment should begin, because each patient is different. However, that is where general dentistry services come into play. 

Consulting with a general dentist about the potential for orthodontics is in the patient’s best interest. This will give the dentist and the patient a chance to prepare for any necessary or recommended upcoming treatment. Being aware of when orthodontic treatment is necessary versus recommended can help patients who are not sure where they might be in the process.

When are orthodontic treatments necessary?

Below, we outline when a general dentist thinks orthodontic treatment is absolutely necessary. This information is important to note and consider. Keep reading to find out more!

Oral health

When consulting with a general dentist about orthodontics, one of the main things they will take into consideration is the patient’s oral health. Crooked teeth and uneven bites can put a patient’s oral and dental health at severe risk. The mouth becomes more prone to bacterial infections, as well as gum disease.

If there are noticeable oral or dental health risks, the dentist will likely state that orthodontics is necessary. Helping patients maintain good health is a general dentist’s number-one goal, and if braces or aligners can help achieve that, then it is likely that they will want to begin orthodontic treatment promptly.

Recommendations from a general dentist

Although general dentists cannot force patients to begin orthodontic treatment at any given time, they can make professional recommendations. These recommendations can aid patients in the decision-making process. Orthodontic treatment is rarely a quick process, as it can take a few months or even a few years. It is important to consider the general dentist’s recommendations in order to maintain good oral health and avoid potential health problems later on.

When adult teeth begin to grow in

For the most part, general dentistry recommends an orthodontic consultation when a patient’s adult teeth are beginning to grow in. This typically happens once all the baby teeth have fallen out and there are noticeable signs that the adult teeth are growing in. The consultation will consist of a thorough evaluation of the entire mouth.

If the general dentist determines that the adult teeth are improperly or unevenly growing in, then orthodontic treatment may be recommended. While it may not be necessary to start immediately, it may be a good idea to have braces or aligners on the radar for down the line.

Adolescents

General dentists also recommend that patients undergo orthodontic treatment at an early age because the teeth are still developing and establishing their roots. Once the teeth are fully grown in and developed, it makes treatment more difficult because the teeth are already in place.

Orthodontics from a general dentist

If you have questions about orthodontic treatment, then reach out to our office so we can help you. Give us a call or stop by today. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbyjulia.com or call Smiles By Julia at (954) 271-8034 for an appointment in our Fort Lauderdale office.

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