As a pediatric dentist, this is a good question I receive often and my answer usually is: “let’s take a look shall we”.
I like to consider a few things before making an orthodontic recommendation:
- Timing: child/adolescent vs adult
- Financing: cash vs insurance
- Desire: want vs medical need
- Location: local provider vs mail or internet service
- Type: traditional braces vs liners (Invisalign, smile by design…)
If you are interested, here are some additional criteria that I use to assess:
Tooth positioning and available space, crowding, traumatic occlusion, classification of malocclusion, airway development, patient profile, patient desires, patient ability to tolerate/comply with orthodontic treatment, financial commitment, patient age, skeletal involvement, jaw health (TMJ/TMD), hygiene pattern, caries(cavity) rate, enamel stability, periodontal health, location stability.
With all of these things to be considered, I welcome and encourage you to seek your dentist’s advice and opinion.
Ultimately the goal of you achieving the smile you want is one we wish to share with you! Enjoy and take advantage of the free first consultation with your orthodontist. Study and search different options including online and mail services. Also, be prepared to ask your local orthodontist what is best for you before making the commitment. Do not feel obligated to sign a contract or begin brackets and treatment until you feel you are ready.
Contact me if you have any questions.
