For Children and Adults

Orthodontics for Children

It's best for Dr. Scott Ralph to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and it is the best time for that patient to be treated. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated. When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.

Orthodontics for Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. A reasonably healthy adult at any age can be a candidate for orthodontic treatment. We offer many treatment options including Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® for young adults.

Why do adults want orthodontic treatment?

Most adults want orthodontic treatment because they realize that taking care of your smile is part of taking care of yourself. Orthodontic treatment can make a person look younger and feel better. Orthodontic treatment also offers health benefits, such as increasing the ability to effectively clean the teeth, keeping them healthier. It is a known fact that people with straight teeth have less gingivitis and gum disease on average vs. their crooked-toothed peers.

What's in a Smile?

Look at your smile in the mirror. Your smile is the most important feature on your face. Are you happy with your smile now? Does your smile look as good as it did when you were younger? What do you think about someone who has a pleasing smile? Do you find them attractive? At the end of orthodontic treatment, people's smiles end up looking fabulous. Wouldn't it be great if you looked fabulous too?

Are there any age limits?

No, there are no age limits! Orthodontic treatment does go slower when you are older, and it feels different, but people as old as 90 are getting braces. Technology has made orthodontic treatment surprisingly comfortable compared to ages past.