What Types of Patients Benefit From Traditional Orthodontics?
Orthodontics can begin for patients as young as six or seven years of age. At this stage, traditional orthodontic techniques can be used to hold spaces and perform other early interventions. Then, in adolescence, the traditional orthodontics approach can begin with the application of brackets, wires, and other elements of adjustment.
What Is The Average Length of Treatment?
Traditional orthodontics treatment typically lasts anywhere from 24 to 36 months.
What Are The Advantages of Traditional Orthodontics?
Traditional orthodontics are especially effective with adolescents and younger patients who may benefit from the forced compliance. Because the adjusting elements are typically bonded or cemented on, the patients are not taking them out of their mouths. Additionally, not all young patients require full orthodontics right away. Rather, they could be started with a few appliances for minor tooth movement and then move onto something more comprehensive later on as their smile develops.
What Is the Patient Experience Like?
Traditional orthodontics patients will come in every 3-4 weeks for adjustments once they’ve started active treatment. Patients tend to experience some discomfort after each tightening, an inevitable factor when moving teeth, but it is usually manageable with an over the counter pain reliever and tends to pass after a day or so.
Are Orthodontics Services Covered By Insurance?
Most insurance companies do cover orthodontics, especially for children. However, more and more insurance companies are beginning to offer coverage for adult orthodontics as well. At Penn Dental, our financial coordinator can help you navigate this process prior to beginning any treatment.
