Dr. Kevin D. Horner is an Orthodontist and has answered some common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about Orthodontic Treatment.
Q. At what age should a parent take their child to an Orthodontist?
A. We recommend that a child see an orthodontist as early as age 7. For most children, permanent first molars and permanent anterior teeth have erupted into the mouth by age 7. This is a good time to for an orthodontic evaluation to determine if early treatment is necessary. Early orthodontic intervention may only be necessary for a small percentage of children. Your family dentist is the best one for you to ask about an early referral to an orthodontist.
Q. What is the duration for an Orthodontic treatment?
A. Orthodontic treatment time can vary depending on the type of problem that you have. In our office, the treatment time for children ranges from 21 to 24 months and 27 to 30 months for adults. Many patients complete their treatment in 18 months.
Q. What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
A. Early orthodontic treatment is indicated when a child presents with a finger habit or a tongue thrust swallowing pattern. We recommend early orthodontic treatment to correct a dental cross bite, anterior or posterior. The young patient with an over jet of 6mm or more would benefit from early treatment to reduce the protrusion and improve dental alignment and occlusion. Early intervention can help resolve anterior crowding making it easier for a patient to keep their teeth clean during the cavity prone years.
Q. How can we contact Dr. Horner if we have further questions?
A. For more information regarding orthodontic treatment for you or your child, call Horner Orthodontics toll free 866-633-6202 or 605-335-6680, stop by our new office in the Yankton Trail Professional Park at 2407 West 57th Street in Sioux Falls or go to www.hornerorthodontics.com.
