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Chicago, Illinois Since 2001
I’m at that age where a lot of my friend’s kids are starting to get their braces.
I’ll get a phone call a few times a year, for some advice.
The call goes like this:
“Hey buddy. My daughter still has her baby teeth, and her orthodontist wants to put braces on them. The orthodontist says he’ll probably need to place braces a second time when she’s older. This sounds like a scam and they’re just trying to make money.”
So, I want to give you an honest answer.
When orthodontists are straightening teeth, we have to consider 2 different issues.
We are looking at whether the teeth are growing in crooked or slanted. Basically, a tooth issue.
Then we are dealing with whether the jaws are developing properly. Basically, a skeletal issue.
When braces are placed during the patient’s growth phase, we are dealing with the development of the jaw. These braces help stimulate the bone to grow properly and give the teeth the proper room for them to grow in.
Not only does this jaw stimulation help with getting the best cosmetic result, it helps to prevent the patient from developing sleep apnea in the future, and help increase the tongue space which, in turn, helps prevent sleep apnea also. Once this first phase of orthodontics is completed, it’s a wait and see approach, to know if the second phase is needed.
Many times, once the space is created, the teeth fall into place and a second braces phase is not required.
I will use the 2-phase treatment, if needed, on my own son.
So, if you can afford the 2-phase approach, do it. It will only bring better results in the end.
If you are searching for a dentist or dental advice, visit us at mydente.com or call us at 773-292-1911.
Floss Like a Madman!Emilio “Tooth Be Told” Couret
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