Great question! 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, 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 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 us to assess what the best age for treatment is.

Visiting your dentist during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Pazios and Vidovic will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy while you have braces, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease, is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Today, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Your dentist is specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us know if you have any questions about your oral health during your next adjustment appointment. Take care of your teeth!

Grind, grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

•Sensitivity in the teeth
•Tightness or pain in the jaw
•Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
•Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

•Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
•Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
•Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
•Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
•When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by contacting us. Dr. Pazios and Vidovic can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Hope this helps. Have a great week!

When you visit Embrace Orthodontists for your orthodontic consultation, you’ll probably have a lot of questions. We want you to be prepared for your appointment and feel in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind to ask when you come in for your appointment:

• How long will I have to wear braces?
• Will getting braces hurt?
• Will I have to wear additional appliances to correct jaw problems while I have braces?
• What can I eat when I have braces?
• Are there certain things, like playing sports or playing an instrument, which I won’t be able to do?
• How can I make sure my teeth stay clean and healthy while I have braces?
• How often will I need to come in for appointments?
• How much will my orthodontic treatment cost?

Drs. Spiro Pazios and Antony Vidovic are here to answer all your questions and concerns, and we’re happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan and expected outcome. We believe your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you smiling! Contact our Belconnen orthodontic office or our Manuka orthodontic office today to schedule a thorough orthodontic consultation covering all your treatment options and financing. Let us show you how Embrace Orthodontists can brighten your smile!