Orthodontics, best known by its tools of the trade - braces - is a special discipline of dentistry concerned with aligning the teeth and jaws to improve your child's smile and oral health. Patients of almost any age, but mostly children, can benefit from treatment for orthodontic problems.
An orthodontic problem is called a malocclusion, or "bad bite." Some examples of causes of malocclusion include crowded teeth, extra teeth, missing teeth or misaligned jaws. Most malocclusions are inherited, although some can be acquired. Acquired malocclusions can be caused by accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth, or oral habits that are continued over a long period of time. Dr. Corbett has done extensive research and study on craniofacial growth and development. He is committed to the prevention and treatment of malocclusion through non-intrusive retraining of the oral musculature and elimination of bad oral habits.
If required, orthodontic evaluations are appropriate for most children beginning around seven years old. Typically, braces are worn between the ages of 10 and 14; this is the period of development in which the head and mouth are still growing and teeth are more accessible to straightening. Earlier orthodontic intervention can sometimes prevent the need for full orthodontic treatment. More and more adults are also wearing braces to correct minor problems and to improve their smiles.
Orthodontic treatment will help your child by:
• guiding permanent teeth into the proper positions
• reducing the potential for to jaw joint damage
• reducing the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
• lowering the risk of damage to protruded upper teeth
• ensuring the proper width of dental arches
• shortening treatment time for later corrective orthodontics
• improving lip closure
• influencing proper jaw growth
• improving eruption patterns
• reserving or gaining space for erupting permanent teeth
• improving some speech problems
