Kids getting braces at a younger age

Drs. Ahman, Janowski and Mayers will tell you that braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for our doctors to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Congratulations, Ellie and Kara! They were the August Hygiene Card Contest winners at our Celina office.

Drs. Thomas Ahman, Joseph Janowski, and Matthew Mayers would like to congratulate Ellie and her hygienist, Kara, at Dr. Willmann's office. They were the winners of our August Hygiene Card Contest at our Celina, OH office! Thank you, Ellie, for seeing your family dentist for cleanings and check-ups! Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in your area. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Orthodontic Associates. We would love to hear from you!

Don't forget about your oral health!

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment at Orthodontic Associates? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Ottawa, Lima, and Celina, OH areas!