You don’t have to wait for your dentist to refer your child to an orthodontist
Parents are often the first to recognize that something is not quite right about their child’s teeth or jaws. A parent may notice that the front teeth don’t come together when the back teeth are closed, or that the upper teeth are sitting inside of the lower teeth. They may assume that their dentist is aware of the anomaly and that he/she will make a referral to an orthodontist when the time is right. A referral might not happen if the dentist isn’t evaluating the bite.
Dr. Hage does not require a referral from a dentist to make an appointment with him.
Dentists and orthodontists may have different perspectives.
Dentists are looking at the overall health of the teeth and mouth. He/she could be looking at how well the patient brushes and flosses or if there are cavities. While dentists look at the upper and lower teeth they may not study how the two arches make contact.
Orthodontists are looking at the bite, meaning the way the teeth come together. This is the orthodontists’ specialty. Orthodontists take the upper and lower jaw into account. Even if the teeth appear to be straight, mismatched jaws can cause a bad bite.
A healthy bite is the goal of orthodontic treatment.
A healthy bite denotes good function – biting, chewing and speaking. It also means teeth and jaws are in proportion to the rest of the face.
Dr. Hage recommends children get their first checkup with an orthodontist between the ages of 7 and 9.
Kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth around age 7. Dr. Hage is uniquely trained to evaluate your child’s growth as well as the exchange of baby teeth for permanent teeth. He is expertly qualified to determine whether a problem exists or if one is developing.
Hage Orthodontics offers a no cost, no obligation initial exam.
Visit hageortho.com or call one of our conveniently located offices today to schedule a free consultation.
Dr. Hage is an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics (properly aligned teeth and jaws) and possesses the skills and experience to give you your best smile.
Give us a call!