invisalign first

Back to school time means schedules, sports, homework and all the things families navigate together including their orthodontic appointments. For braces treatment plans it is important to have regular adjustment and checks (usually every 4-8 weeks on average). For Invisalign aligner treatment plans, regular checks are less frequent but equally as important (usually every 8-12 weeks on average). Regular appointments are needed to monitor the movement of teeth towards the treatment goals and complete the next steps or adjustments needed to get there. It is also important to check the care of the braces and the dental health that can be affected by oral appliances.

Orthodontics 20 years ago often involved extractions, surgeries, lengthy treatment times, extraoral devices (like headgear) and clear aligners (Invisalign) were just starting to be developed. Now, preventative evaluation, materials advancements and new techniques provide new treatment may also be possible!

Orthodontic assessments at age 7-10 years old, when baby teeth are still present, can be thought of as a proactive evaluation to see if intervention could improve the overall orthodontic outcome and/or experience. Some typical goals of early assessment are attempting to reduce the risk of surgery, extractions, gum recession, or loss of tooth structure in addition to improved function and better overall esthetic results. Treatment options including Invisalign, braces or no treatment and a monitoring plan can be discussed at this visit.

Wax diagnostic set ups in orthodontics are now replaced with scans, 3D printing and digital orthodontic software. Dr. Ekim prefers the itero and aligntech software to manage orthodontic prediction, planning and communication with colleagues and patients. An easy 3-5 minute scan has now replaced the impression tray of alginate, plaster pouring, model trimming and sectioning teeth for a wax set up. Instead, Dr. Ekim can digitally plan orthodontic treatment options and demonstrate them to patients, their dental providers at in-person consults or live virtual meetings with shared screens!

A beautiful smile is also a healthy smile! The first orthodontic visit is recommended between 7 and 9 years old. This initial assessment of crowding, symmetry and arch form is very valuable in planning ahead for better results and likely easier treatment. Although not everyone benefits from a phase I orthodontics treatment plan, an initial baseline can be very valuable to the overall orthodontic plan. And with methods, procedures with braces and clear aligners like Invisalign, there are many options to learn about.