Why?

Early warning signs

• Crowded or misaligned teeth.
• Teeth inclined forward (procumbent).
  Overjet
• Upper teeth that cover too much of the lower teeth.
  Overbite
• Early or late loss of teeth.
• Thumb or finger sucking.
• Speech disorder.
• Difficulty in biting or chewing.
• Teeth grinding or teeth clenching.
• Jaw that deviates or makes sounds while moving.
• Missing teeth.

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommend that the first visit to the orthodontist be around age 7.

Even if the treatment cannot be started before a few years later, examination at an early age allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate the problem, then plan the appropriate treatment.

Some cases can be started very early to prevent more serious problems in the future. This type of intervention enables to shorten a subsequent treatment or to make it less complicated.

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Psychological factors

What is cute at age six may not be so at age twenty-six

Self-confidence and self-esteem can be important psychological factors when people decide to undergo an orthodontic treatment; it is very often described by the patient as the #1 objective of the treatment. Certainly, it is quite pleasant to have a beautiful smile, but it is as pleasant to look at for the people around us. Let’s not forget that an appealing smile is only the first step: improving our dental health and our quality of life are objectives that are equally important.

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Malocclusion

The word “Malocclusion” is maybe all new to you. It is a technical term that means: Teeth that are misaligned, too far forward, crowded, …, which do not come in contact properly. Literally speaking, this word means “wrong way to bite”.

Wrong way to bite

Some malocclusions are acquired. They can be caused by thumb sucking, by tongue projection between the teeth (lingual propulsion or atypical deglutition), by dental diseases, by the early loss of primary teeth or permanent teeth, by accidents or even by some medical disorders.

When biting is done the wrong way

Left alone without correction, orthodontic problems can worsen. Crowded or misaligned teeth are hard to clean and to keep clean. This can lead to situations contributing to tooth decay, gum diseases and, eventually the loss of teeth.

An incorrect way to bite can lead to abnormal tooth wear, difficulties in chewing and a stress level too important for the gum and for the bone supporting the teeth.

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