According to Dr. Jefferson, dentists properly trained in orthodontic and temporomandibular disorder therapy can often alleviate facial disharmony without surgery through the use of orthodontic appliances. These changes can affect health as well as looks, says Dr. Jefferson. For example, a person with a long, narrow face is more likely to have problems breathing through his or her nose. The key to successful diagnosis and treatment is early intervention, says Dr. Jefferson. Orthodontic care, preferably presented as a team approach between a general dentist and orthodontist, should begin as early as possible, says Dr. Jefferson.
Many parents wait until children are in their teens before considering orthodontic treatment.
But once a child reaches the age of 13, jaw development slows and there is limited room for growth. When a child is treated between the ages of five and 11, general dentists and orthodontists can redirect the child's growth and reduce the length of time that a child wears braces. Often times, an extremely short, long or narrow face, a small weak chin or jutting lower jaw can be corrected with orthodontic appliances. Orthodontics 211 East Chicago Ave. All rights reserved.