The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children should be seen by an orthodontic specialist by the age of seven. The purpose of an early visit is to evaluate whether changes in the child’s skeletal patterns are needed. If changes are needed, we can make plans to begin treatment at the ideal time. There are several advantages to early treatment.; If detected early, harmful habits can be corrected to avoid further, more extensive treatment and early treatment often has higher quality results than adolescent or adult treatment. Also less treatment is usually needed if begun at an early age. Some of the treatment used are:

• Palatal Expander: makes room for crowded teeth by widening the upper jaw
• Habit corrector: helps stop thump-sucking, tongue thrusting or mouth-breathing
• Functional Appliance: guides jaws into position and helps chewing muscle to bite correctly
• Braces: move permanent teeth into correct position
• Headgear: realigns jaws and moves teeth into line
• Retainer: stabilizes teeth in the new position

The most common age for orthodontic treatment is during the teenage years when people have permanent teeth and more mature jaws. Treatment may last one to three years. Some of the treatments are:

• Braces: tiny bonded brackets of full bands
• Headgear: realigns jaws and teeth
• Retainer: stabilizes teeth in their corrected positions
• Functional Appliance or Palatal Expander: used when jaws are still growing
• Extractions: removal of teeth to make room for crowed teeth

Most people think that orthodontic treatment is just for children. The truth us people of all ages, including adolescents and adults, receive orthodontic care for healthier teeth and gums, improved chewing from properly aligned teeth, and increased confidence from esthetically pleasing teeth. Treatment for adults may take longer than for children and teenagers. The appliances used are similar to those for children. There are different options for braces such as bonded brackets and full bands, invisible lingual braces that fit inside the teeth, clear or tooth-colored braces and removable braces. Headgear and retainers are used also. A splint is sometimes used to help treat TMJ syndrome and surgery may be recommended for severe bite problems.

Often orthodontic care is needed before prosthetics, such as implants, crowns, bridges and dentures, can be placed.

Both pre-surgical and post-surgical orthodontics are done by Dr. Carrie Pisklak. We work with some of the finest surgeons in the Houston area.

Our patients range from the very young (age 5 and younger!) to the “young at heart” (we have patients in their 70’s and 80’s)- with treatments running from the most routine to the most complex. Our doctors are glad to help you and your family with all your