At the age of seven the development of the jaws and teeth are at a critical stage. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends examination at this age as it can screen for existing or potential conditions that may not be conducive to normal growth and development.
Treatment at this age may be indicated for the following reasons:
To influence jaw growth in a positive manner
To reduce the need to extract permanent teeth
To reduce the need for jaw surgery
To lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
To correct harmful oral habits
To improve esthetics and self esteem
While treatment at a young age can produce wonderful changes, for the majority of children observation is probably all that is needed.
However, there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Doctor Getchell sees many adults who seek care for improving their appearance or for health reasons. Thirty percent of all our orthodontic patients are adults.
The modern technologies that we now use promote more gentle, longer lasting pressures that move teeth more efficiently. This allows for follow up appointments that can be spaced further apart and for less discomfort. These modern advances have made orthodontics more readily accepted by children and adults.
Understanding that each patient has specific needs and desires we offer both traditional and ceramic (clear) braces. Unlike their predecessors, modern clear braces do not stain. These new invisible brackets function exactly as their traditional metal counterparts do.
In addition, Doctor Getchell is certified in the Invisalign technique, and was one of the earlier adopters of this system. With Invisalign we can produce nice results without the social inconvenience that comes with conventional braces. This system uses invisible, removable "aligners".
In our office the most strict guidelines for sterilization of all materials and instruments are followed. We would never even consider recycling braces between patients.
