New parents often have questions when trying to make sure they do their best to ensure their child’s health. Eye tests, ear tests and vaccinations abound. Most parents won’t think about the development of the jaw and bite and whether all of the teeth are forming properly. “Braces” are a far-off possibility to be contended with later.
As parents, we watch their little faces. We should do the utmost to ensure they are confident and have a healthy and functioning bite and beautiful smile. It all starts with early monitoring and proper timing of treatment. Whether it is for your young child, teenager or yourself, it’s essential to understand the importance of Orthodontics for your own or your loved one’s health and well-being.
Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on growth and development of the jaws and alignment and movement mechanics of the teeth. Although some dentists do limited orthodontic work, an Orthodontist is a Board-Certified Specialist who is a dentist first, and then completes a 3-year Master’s Degree in Orthodontics following their dental training. The easiest way to verify if a Dentist is an Orthodontist, is to ask if they are a member of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists.
So, enjoy their gummy smiles, be excited when those first baby teeth appear, but when your child reaches 7, the best ounce of prevention, is to visit our orthodontists, Dr. Sarah Davidson and Dr. Dan Stuart. We feel that it is so important, that at our clinic, no referral is needed and consultations are free.