Smiles for All Seasons
At Pierce Orthodontics, we’re experienced at serving Mt. Pleasant patients of all ages. And that makes sense — there’s no age limit on wanting a beautiful, happy smile!
Treatment can look slightly different depending on what stage of life you’re in. Whatever age you’re at, we’ve got you covered.
Orthodontics for Children
You might be surprised to learn that Dr. Tim and the American Association of Orthodontists recommend children should see an orthodontist no later than their seventh birthday. That’s because by age seven, the permanent (adult) molars and incisors should be present.
This is the perfect time for Dr. Tim to see if there are any potential issues with tooth eruption and development. Most issues can be resolved with a later single phase of treatment, but sometimes an early, limited phase of orthodontics can be extremely beneficial.
Even without treatment, seeing patients at a young age allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and development and select the ideal timing to achieve the best individualized treatment plan. At Pierce Orthodontics, there’s no charge for these observation appointments!
Early (Phase I) Treatment
Early treatment gives us the opportunity to:
- Safely widen the upper jaw
- Reduce the need to remove permanent teeth
- Reduce or eliminate the need for jaw surgery
- Decrease risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- Stop harmful habits such as thumbsucking
- Improve aesthetics and self-esteem
- Simplify and shorten treatment time for definitive orthodontic treatment
- Decrease the likelihood of impacted teeth
- Improve speech development and lip competence
- Guide permanent teeth into the proper position
Does My Child Need Phase I Treatment?
Phase I treatment may be right for your child if they show signs of:
- Crossbite — whether it’s in the front or in the back
- Habits such as thumbsucking or mouth breathing
- Severe crowding
- Blocked out or impacted teeth
- Space maintenance if a baby tooth is lost early
- Self-esteem issues due to spaced or crooked teeth
How Long Does Phase I Treatment Last?
This phase is often limited to 12 – 14 months. Depending on the development and eruption of the permanent teeth, a second phase of treatment after the eruption of the permanent teeth may or may not be necessary.
Orthodontics for Teens
During the age range of 11 – 15, teens get the rest of their permanent teeth and experience rapid growth. It’s important to sync the alignment of teeth with growth in order to properly coordinate the bite.
For most patients, this is the most ideal time to begin treatment, and we strive to finish treatment prior to the start of high school if at all possible.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Teens are very aware of their appearance and may prefer the more cosmetic options traditionally reserved for adults. Teens can now choose from:
- Metal braces
- Clear ceramic brackets
- Clear aligners
Do I Need to Miss School for My Appointments?
No, our goal is to make orthodontic treatment as seamless with your life as possible. We provide after-school appointments for regular adjustments.
Dr. Tim also makes every effort to provide coverage to assist you should you experience any unforeseen problems on the weekends or after hours.
The “construction appointment,” when the braces are placed, will be your longest appointment and is typically scheduled in the morning. If this time doesn’t work, please let us know and we’ll work to find a time that is more convenient for you.
How Long Will I Have Braces?
Every case is different, but our goal is to be as quick as possible without sacrificing quality.
Most cases take around 12 – 18 months. Significant bite problems may take 24 months to resolve as we work with growth to correct the bite.
Orthodontics for Adults
Did you know that one-in-five new Mt. Pleasant orthodontic patients are over the age of 18? It’s true!
That’s because treatment is faster, more effective, and more affordable than ever before — and there’s no reason why adults shouldn’t have a healthy, happy smile.
At Pierce Orthodontics, that’s just what you can expect.
What Are My Options?
With so many new treatment options, more adults than ever are choosing to improve their smiles. Whether you’re in sales or in front of a classroom, we’ve got a treatment for you.
Ceramic braces are tooth-colored brackets that disappear on the teeth. These brackets give you the speed and control of traditional braces without the metallic look.
Clear Aligners give you a series of clear plastic aligners that progressively move your teeth. We’ll change the trays every 2 – 3 weeks during treatment. Aligners are great for those worried about their hygiene during treatment as brushing and flossing can proceed normally during treatment.
Why Get Treatment as an Adult?
Many of our patients seek treatment for a more beautiful smile, but the biggest benefit is more often a healthier bite!
By seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, you can avoid severe tooth decay, gum and bone loss, and TMJ pain.
Talk to your dentist about adding orthodontics to your restorative treatment plan to increase the stability, aesthetics, and possibilities for your planned restorations!
Start With a Free Consultation
No matter your age, Pierce Orthodontics is your resource for an amazing smile. Dr. Tim and the team have the talent and the tools to take your smile from ordinary to extraordinary — and from unhappy to totally healthy.
Call us today at 843.884.3236, or just fill out this convenient form to get started.