Evans Orthodontic Treatment Philosophy
We would like to share some information with you about our orthodontic philosophy, as it relates to appropriate ages for orthodontic referral. In general, we prefer to see children at a young age so that we can have an opportunity to influence their facial growth and development. We consider age 5 to 7 to be the most ideal time to intercept most malocclusions.
Jaws Well Related - Crowding and spacing problems can be seen in the late mixed dentition. When there is crowding in the mandibular arch, we prefer to initiate orthodontic treatment prior to shedding the mandibular deciduous second molar teeth. This will increase the possibility of non-extraction orthodontic treatment.
Upper Jaw Forward and/or Lower Jaw Back - Problems exhibiting excessive overjet can be especially well handled in the early mixed dentition. We have found this treatment advantageous for reducing the skeletal disharmonies, and can allow us to treat more often without extraction of the permanent teeth and/or without orthognathic surgery. Also, early treatment can reduce traumatic injury to the maxillary incisor teeth and can have psychological benefits. (See Sample Images Below.)
Upper Jaw Forward and/or Lower Jaw Back
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Side View Before
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Frontal View After
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Side View After
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Frontal View Before
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Frontal View After
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Side View After
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Upper Jaw Back and/or Lower Jaw Forward - Bite patterns, especially those with crossbite interferences, should be intercepted very early. We prefer seeing these children as young as 5 to 7 years of age, in hopes of reducing the severity of the developing crossbite problem. We can expand the palate and/or advance the maxilla and correct these problems in a very effective manner. We have been using protraction headgears since 1981. Protraction headgear in the early mixed dentition can reduce the need for orthognathic surgery. (See Sample Images Below.)
Upper Jaw Back and/or Lower Jaw Forward
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Frontal View Before
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Side View Before
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Frontal View After
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Side View After
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We have found an increasing number of adults seeking treatment for both functional and esthetic problems. We have worked with many dentists to correct occlusal interferences and establish more functional bite relationships for their patients in an effort to reduce stress to the teeth, periodontium and TMJ.