Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics because healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Monitoring facial and physical growth and development is crucial to managing many orthodontic problems well, thus the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age seven. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult and may limit the results achieved.

Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every four patients in our office is over age 21. Special considerations for adult treatment are sometimes necessary. With our experience in treating adults, we are able to match specific treatment needs with the latest technology in orthodontics and the related dental specialties. Clear, removable aligners (Invisalign) may be a viable alternative to allow bite correction without visable appliances. Orthodontics is often an initial step prior to having restorations placed or replaced so that your final dental result is as healthy, long lasting and esthetic as possible.

Dr. David is one of only two orthodontists in the Akron Dental Society to participate in the nationwide Seattle Study Club, an organization composed of family dentists and multiple specialists who meet monthly to plan treatment for complex dental problems. A well-coordinated, interdisciplinary approach allows optimal results in a timely, efficient and cost-effective manner. Beware of any approach that premises miracle results in unbelievably brief periods of time. "Act in haste, repent in leisure".

Teens

As you are well aware, teens are special persons with unique characteristics and needs. We are able to accommodate many of those needs with the wide range of treatment options available. Most teens will not wear a headgear and we rarely use them as they are almost always an inappropriate treatment choice. Invisalign appliances are often the best option and most teens readily accept them if they wish to avoid braces. Please visit the section on Invisaligns to gain more information.

Kids

We can do our best for your children if we see them around age seven. We are able to evaluate their growth and development at an age when they are exchanging their baby teeth for the permanent teeth. Not every child needs treatment at this young age, but early evaluation and monitoring can intercept developing problems. Treatment is begun early when growth guidance is necessary. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth and minimize the need for later permanent tooth extractions. Early intervention can also reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth and help to correct harmful habits including thumbsucking. In other words, in some cases early treatment can simplify or eliminate the need for later treatment.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time typically ranges from one to two years depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond diversely to orthodontic treatment. The patient's oral hygiene, care of the braces and diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Children who undergo early treatment usually are given removable appliances for twelve months. A rest period follows until all the permanent teeth erupt. Braces or Invisalign may then be placed, if needed, for another 12-15 months to finish alignment. Invisaligns will often require significantly less time.