Straightening teeth is certainly one of the most sought-after benefits of orthodontic treatment. But did you know that a straight smile actually fosters healthy teeth and gums, as well? When your teeth fit together properly, you reduce your risk for a number of common dental issues, including cavities, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and more. Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. David Markham, offers unparalleled care for patients of all ages. If you are in search of a compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable family dentist, look no further than Maidu Dental.
Orthodontic Treatment for Children
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic appointment when they are about seven years old. During the developmental years, it is much easier to identify and diagnose dental skeletal issues.
Not every child will need braces at a young age. However, for those who do, early treatment will allow Dr. Markham to:
- Guide the growth of the jaw for proper eruption of permanent teeth
- Create space for overcrowded teeth
- Control the width of the upper and lower arches
- Encourage proper speech patterns and development
- Avoid more invasive procedures in the future, such as extractions and/or orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery)
If you are trying to determine whether or not your child needs to visit an orthodontist, there are a few things you can look for. These include:
- Difficulty chewing or eating
- Premature or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded, crooked, or misplaced teeth
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Mouth breathing
- Disproportionate jaws or teeth
Orthodontic Treatment for Teenagers
It seems that life is especially busy during the teenage years. Between school, extra-curricular activities, and social engagements, there is a lot going on. The last thing most young people want to hear is that they need braces. Aside from taking up time, orthodontic treatment can carry a stigma of unattractiveness for many teens. Fortunately, in today’s world, we can straighten teeth in a number of ways. In addition to traditional braces, there are clear braces, aligner trays, lingual braces, and more. During an initial consultation, Dr. Markham will determine which treatment option will effectively meet the needs of your teen.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Plenty of adults are successfully completing orthodontic treatment. In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontics, one out of every five patients is over the age of 21. There are many reasons adults pursue braces. For some, they simply wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile. Others have come to understand the role that straight teeth play in overall oral health. Many of our patients seek orthodontic care due to:
- Malocclusion or an unbalanced bite
- Overcrowding
- Spacing or gaps between the teeth
- Jaw or facial pain
- The desire for a healthier, more beautiful smile
No matter what your reason may be for considering orthodontics, we can help you find a solution. During your consultation, Dr. Markham will listen closely to your concerns and design a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs. We can even combine your treatment with procedures in cosmetic dentistry for a dramatic new smile.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment Available at Maidu Dental
Dr. Markham understands that each patient is unique, and will therefore have different needs. At our practice, we offer a variety of treatment options that will cater to a number of lifestyles:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Invisible braces
- Lingual braces
- Invisalign®
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation Today
If you or someone in your family is considering braces, our Auburn, CA practice can help. To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Markham, call our office at (530) 823-8771 or contact us online.