When is the best time to see an Orthodontic Specialist?

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

How do You Know When to See a Specialist?

We recommend getting a check up with an orthodontic specialist at the first sign of jaw pain, tenderness, or bite problems. If you have issues with your jaw or bite and your general dentist or current orthodontist says that surgery is the only way, get a second opinion at our Pasadena orthodontic specialist practice. Dr. Greenberg is an expert in severe orthodontic cases and our practice is known for non-surgical and non-extraction techniques.

If your child is experiencing jaw problems or trouble with their bite, see a specialist as soon as possible. Don’t wait for it to get worse as the child develops; the earlier you deal with it, the better results you can expect. Every orthodontist is different and sometimes surgery is the only way, but it’s crucial that you check off all other options before undergoing surgery. Early intervention keeps treatment options open.

What is Your Two-Phase Treatment?

The Two-Phase Treatment starts with developing the patient’s jaw size in order to accommodate all of the permanent teeth and to relate the upper and lower jaws to each other. Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized at an early age. If children around age six are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment.

The First Phase of treatment consists of developing the jaw to accommodate all of the teeth. The Second Phase involves making sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly.

Early Orthodontic Treatment: Planning Now Can Save Your Smile Later!

Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontic treatment utilizing appliances that direct the growth relationship of the upper and lower jaws. Thus, a good foundation can be established, providing adequate room for eruption of all permanent teeth. This early correction may prevent later removal of permanent teeth to correct overcrowding and/or surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy too severe to achieve an ideal result with braces.

Have questions? Contact our team to schedule a consultation and learn more about our orthodontic services and second-opinion options.