Featured Interview on Bizymoms.com
Dr. S. Jay Bowman is an Orthodontist and has answered some common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about Orthodontics.
Q. At what age should a parent take their child to an Orthodontist?
A. The American Association of Orthodontists has recommended that children have an examination for orthodontic needs around age 7. However, this does not always mean that is the optimum time to begin treatment. Certainly, there are situations best addressed early, but many patients benefit from simple, regular monitoring of growth and development until around 11, when orthodontic treatment is most often considered.
Q. What is the best time for Orthodontic treatment?
A. Timing is everything in orthodontics for younger patients. Often orthodontic problems involve different in growth between the two jaws. Therefore, the correction requires a modification of a patient that is still growing. Since the majority of facial growth for females is complete around 13-14, beginning treatment two years earlier is typical. We have a bit more leeway with males as they tend to grow for a longer time. Another common issue is that of crowded and twisted teeth. Timing is also important to deal with crowding as sometimes the space available for permanent teeth can be better managed at a younger age. Although the majority of patients seeking orthodontics are young, a significant number of adults are now interested in improving their bites and smiles, too.
Q. Will insurance cover Orthodontic treatment?
A. Many dental insurance plans also cover orthodontic treatment. Our insurance coordinator is an expert who handles billing insurances and she will investigate the specifics of your insurance plan. Our goal is not to permit finance concerns interfering with your pursuit of a beautiful new smile.
Q. What is the duration for an Orthodontic treatment?
A. The range of time for orthodontic treatment depends upon the specific problems that a person has. Treatments can be as short as 6 months but the average time is from 16-30 months for most malocclusions. A simple no-fee, complimentary orthodontic examination will give you a chance to explore different options regarding the types of treatment and the time required for your particular situation.
Q. What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
A. Examining young patients permits the orthodontist the opportunity to assess their growth and development. Then advice can be provided as to the need for any early treatment or to offer a game plan for future treatment needs. Some problems might benefit from early intervention to avoid more complex issues later. Others only require regular monitoring until more efficient treatment will be done near age 11-12.
Q. What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
A. Interceptive treatments appear to be beneficial for only about 10% of patients before the loss of baby teeth. Patients with oral habits, significant dental crowding, severe protrusion of upper teeth, underbites, and especially, those with crossbites (upper teeth behind lower teeth in either the front or back of the mouth) may best be served with early intervention. Even as early as 1947, Dr. Hays Nance identified the types of dental problems that would best be treated with some early procedures. It is important to note that a second phase of comprehensive orthodontic treatment is still often required even when interceptive care is recommended.
Q. Why should malocclusions be treated?
A. According to the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry, 99.7% of all Americans believe a smile is an important social asset and a great new smile will definitely enhance your self-confidence. In addition, 96% of adults feel an attractive smile makes a person more appealing, while 74% believe an unattractive smile will hurt someone’s chance for career success.
Better chewing and speech, along with a decreased risk of both dental trauma and abnormal wear are benefits of orthodontic treatment. Straight teeth may result in healthier gums and teeth since they are easier to brush and floss. A study in the European Journal of Orthodontics reported that bad bites, that lead people to the orthodontist, also put them at risk for developing jaw dysfunction and pain. Patients with deep overbites (overlapping front teeth), especially when upper front teeth are tipped back are those most likely to develop TMD (jaw issues) and they are more likelihood to have severe wearing of front teeth (loss of enamel).
Q. How can we contact Dr. Bowman if we have further questions?
A. Our smiles are a big part of our identity and how our peers perceive us. Improving your smile is one of the most valuable investments you can make to enhance your overall appearance and self-image. Come visit Kalamazoo Orthodontics for a no-fee, complimentary evaluation to begin a journey to a beautiful new smile – call us at 269-344-2466 for an appointment at any of our three convenient practices in Portage, Kalamazoo, and Paw Paw. Also visit our website www.kalamazooorthodontics.com for more information. My email is drjwyred@aol.com.
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