Orthodontics for All Ages in Edmonds, WA

It’s Never Too Late for a Perfect Smile

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children or teenagers. People of all ages can benefit from a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you’re 7 or 70, orthodontics can help improve the alignment of your teeth, fix bite problems, and boost your confidence. Here’s why orthodontic care is suitable for all ages.

Early Intervention for Children (Ages 7-11)

For children, early orthodontic evaluations are essential. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial consultation by age 7, even if the child hasn’t lost all of their baby teeth yet. Early intervention can address:

Misaligned Bite: Detect and treat bite issues like crossbites, underbites, or overbites.
Jaw Development: Ensure the jaw is developing properly to avoid future problems.
Space for Permanent Teeth: Correct overcrowded teeth, making space for adult teeth to grow properly.
Preventive Care: Intervene early to minimize more serious treatment down the road.

By addressing these issues early, your child may avoid extensive treatments later in life and have a smoother path to a healthy, functional smile.

Adolescent Orthodontics (Ages 12-18)

During the teenage years, orthodontic treatments are most common. This is typically the ideal time to correct crooked teeth and bite issues because most of the permanent teeth have erupted. Key benefits include:

Braces & Clear Aligners: Both traditional metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign offer solutions tailored for teens.
Correcting Aesthetic Concerns: Adolescents are especially concerned with appearance, and straightening teeth at this stage can build self-esteem and confidence.
Improved Oral Health: Aligned teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Long-Term Results: Treatment during this stage can often result in lasting improvements that stay with them for life.

Adult Orthodontics (Ages 18 and Up)

It's never too late to achieve the smile you've always wanted. In fact, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to correct bite issues, straighten teeth, and improve overall oral health. Common treatments for adults include:

Invisible Braces: Clear aligners like Invisalign offer a discreet way to straighten teeth without the visibility of traditional metal braces.
Lingual Braces: These are placed on the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible to others.
Cosmetic Improvements: Orthodontics can also address aesthetic concerns, such as gaps, crookedness, or alignment, without extensive cosmetic procedures.
Better Health: Misaligned teeth can contribute to problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain, so correcting these issues with orthodontic treatment can improve overall health.

Orthodontic care can lead to life-changing results for adults, from a more confident smile to improved functionality and comfort.

Senior Orthodontics (Ages 60 and Beyond)

Believe it or not, even seniors are turning to orthodontics to improve their smiles and oral health. Whether for functional or cosmetic reasons, orthodontic treatments for seniors are effective and beneficial. Benefits include:

Preventing Teeth Shifting: Over time, teeth can shift, causing bite problems or gaps. Orthodontics can help reposition the teeth.
Improving Comfort: Realigning the teeth can ease jaw pain, headaches, and even speech issues caused by misalignment.
Aesthetics: Achieving a straighter smile in later years can boost confidence and make you feel younger.

If you're a senior considering orthodontic treatment, your dentist or orthodontist will develop a plan that’s suited to your specific needs and health.