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Good Beginnings: A Head Start for Healthy Smiles |
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At this early age, the pattern of dental eruption can be seen, and the parent can be alerted to developmental changes that might occur. This allows the child's first experiences with the dentist to be positive. That, in turn, begins to establish a good attitude toward dental care. At the first checkup, you and your child probably will receive instructions on proper care of the teeth and advice on the importance of a proper diet. Thereafter, regular visits will be necessary to detect problems early and maintain good dental health. ANOTHER IMPORTANT VISIT The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child's first visit to an orthodontist take place when an orthodontic problem is first detected. Depending on the nature of the problem, whether it is a jaw growth problem, tooth problem or both, this first visit could take place as early as age 2 or 3, as the primary teeth erupt. Whether or not an orthodontic problem is detected, however, a child should visit an orthodontist for a checkup no later than age 7. This may surprise you because orthodontic treatment usually is associated with adolescence. Although treatment will not necessarily begin at this early age, an examination is important to ensure maximum dental health for your child. The following early warning signs may indicate that your child should have an orthodontic examination:
An orthodontic examination is advisable any time a particular problem is noted by the parent, family dentist or child's physician. THE BENEFITS OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS
THE FIRST VISIT Recognizing an orthodontic problem at an early age does not always result in early treatment. After evaluating your child, the orthodontist may simply want to check your child periodically while the permanent teeth are erupting and the jaws and face continue to grow. However, if your child has a problem that requires attention, your orthodontist may recommend interceptive treatment. Early intervention, which takes advantage of facial growth and tooth eruption, can lessen the severity of a problem, and it frequently makes the completion of treatment at a later age less time-consuming and less expensive.
TYPES OF ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS The technical term for teeth and jaws that do not fit and work together properly is "malocclusion," commonly called a "bad bite." Most malocclusions are inherited, but some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding or spacing of the teeth caused by a difference in the size of the teeth and jaws or differing facial patterns of the parents. Acquired malocclusions can be caused by finger sucking, tongue position, airway obstruction, dental disease, or premature loss or retention of the primary (baby) teeth. Whether inherited or acquired, many of these problems affect not only alignment of the teeth but also facial appearance. It also is important to note that orthodontic problems can be present behind perfectly acceptable smiles. An orthodontic specialist is especially qualified to diagnose existing or potential conditions that require treatment. THE IMPORTANCE OF TREATMENT Every parent wants his or her child to have a beautiful smile—and every child should have a healthy smile with properly functioning teeth. The orthodontist's goal is to achieve both for the patient. Untreated malocclusions may contribute to conditions that cause tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, loss of teeth, mouth breathing and jaw joint problems. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is truly applicable here. In addition, uncorrected problems can adversely affect a child's speech, general health and self-esteem. A child's self-confidence almost always increases when his or her smile is improved. This also has an impact on those around the child—parents, siblings, teachers and other children. Successful treatment can lead to greater success in all areas of the child's life. In short, the value of a beautiful, healthy smile should not be underestimated. YOU'LL WANT A SPECIALIST Some things have to be done right the first time. Orthodontic treatment will change your child's teeth and can improve facial appearance. So you'll want a specialist to treat your child. Orthodontists limit their practice
to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics unless they also have
qualified in another American Dental Association (ADA) recognized
specialty.* By completing an advanced education program following
dental school, they have learned the special skills required to
manage tooth movement and guide facial development. Home | Philosophy | Mission | Meet The Orthodontists | Locations
Paul F. Batastini, D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 3672 Dr. Frank Batastini, M.B.A., D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 5089 3 Convenient
Locations to Serve You:
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