Dr. King Answers: Are Kids' First Orthodontic Evaluations OK After Age 7?

Q: I read that a child’s first orthodontic evaluation should occur at age 7. What happens if my child is older than 7?

A: Ideally, I would like to evaluate patients at about age 7, because the permanent molars and incisors are beginning to erupt. Missing teeth, extra teeth and overall bite issues can also be identified at this early age.

The honest truth is, most children will not need orthodontics at age 7-8. But the evaluation can give parents peace of mind and more information about their child’s smile.

If you happen to be a bit late -- say, age 9-10 -- no worries; we can still help with a complete, no-cost evaluation. I begin to worry if patients are first evaluated at age 12-14, as irreversible problems may have occurred, such as impacted teeth, enamel wear or impaired jaw development.

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consultation.
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SOURCE: Terri Heisele [photo]

Dr. King Answers: Do You Ever Do Fixed Retainers?

Q: Do you ever do fixed retainers? Wouldn’t they be better than removable retainers in keeping teeth in place after braces treatment?

A: Yes, I do fixed retainers for many patients. The standard of care is a removable upper retainer, and a fixed or bonded retainer on the lower.

The reason that bonded retainers are not used more frequently on the upper teeth is very simple: The lower teeth may have food collide into them, leading to breakage.

It is also important to consider other factors when choosing between fixed and removable retainers. Excellent oral hygiene is required for fixed retention, as plaque and calculus are more likely to build up.

Also, the patient’s original problem is an important consideration. For example, a gap between the upper front teeth would best be retained with a bonded lingual wire. However, gaps on the lower teeth are sometimes better held with a removable retainer.

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consultation!

Dr. King Answers: What Is the Most Common Orthodontic Problem You Encounter?

Q: What is the most common orthodontic problem you encounter?

A: Great question. The most common problem I encounter and treat is crowded, crooked teeth.

Crowding [see image, right] results when the jaw bone is not large enough to accommodate all of the teeth in their natural, straight positions. As a result, teeth grow in twisted, sideways, angled, tipped, and sometimes do not grow in at all. Crowding can occur at any age, and the solutions are the same -- regardless of the patient's age.

The treatment concept is simple: find a way to make more room for the crowded teeth. Sometimes, I can expand the jaws to make the amount of available space increase. Other times, teeth need to be removed to make more space.

I decide on the proper treatment by analyzing the patient’s facial proportions, facial profile, lip posture, angle of the front teeth and interdigitation, or interlocking, of the back teeth. There is always a solution to provide a beautiful and healthy end result.

Keep smiling, and see you soon.
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SOURCE: Invisalign® [image]

Dr. King Answers: Can I Begin Orthodontic Treatment While Pregnant?

Q: I am pregnant and want to begin orthodontic treatment. Is this OK?

A: Yes, absolutely. Orthodontic treatment is very safe during pregnancy -- however, some special precautions are required.

Traditionally, dental x-rays were avoided during the first and third trimesters. However, with modern digital x-rays and lead apron protection, recent medical recommendations allow for diagnostic x-rays during pregnancy. If a reasonably new x-ray is available from your family dentist, that can also be used to limit exposure.

In addition, you should know that pregnancy tends to increase gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. Special attention to oral hygiene is required during pregnancy -- especially with orthodontics. At King Orthodontics, we recommend a Philips Sonicaire toothbrush and special flossing instruments.

Pregnancy and braces/Invisalign® can go hand in hand. Keep smiling, and see you soon.
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SOURCE: Benjamin Earwicker [photo]

Dr. King Answers: What Is an Orthodontic Expander?

Q: What is an orthodontic expander?

A: This is a special appliance used to widen a narrow jaw.

Some patients are born with a narrow or constricted upper jaw that results in crossbites and crowded teeth. Crossbites are when the upper teeth bite inside of the lower teeth.

An orthodontic expander, also known as a palatal expander [see image], is used to gradually widen the narrow jaw over the course of about 6 months. This is usually done between the ages of 7-9 years, while the bone is soft and growing.

At King Orthodontics, I custom-make expanders to fit the exact size and shape of a patient's jaw. This results in a more comfortable and efficient process.

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consultation.
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SOURCE: Wikipedia [image]