Right Age for Treatment

Interceptive Care

Although most patients can be treated in one phase of orthodontics during adolescence, some patients may benefit from two phases of treatment. Early treatment usually begins around age 9 when the permanent incisors have erupted and the permanent first molars are present. The most common reason to begin orthodontics at age 9 would be concerns with crossbites, a narrow maxilla or mandible, skeletal discrepancies, crowded teeth and esthetic concerns. Dr. Stevenson and Dr. Hanis do recommend that parents bring their children to our office by age 9 to evaluate their child's dentition. These are complimentary exams in our office and may be scheduled in person or over the phone. Although treatment may not be needed at that time, Dr. Stevenson and/or Dr. Hanis can give their recommendations on what to expect for your child.

Adolescent Care

Typically, we like to begin adolescent care when a patient has lost all of their primary teeth and the permanent second molars have erupted or are close to being erupted. This corresponds to age 10-12 in most patients. It is important to see patients early to verify any skeletal problems that may exist so that treatment can be in conjunction with the adolescent growth spurt in case skeletal jaw growth modification is needed.

Adult Care

We treat adults and, in many cases, are able to use either Invisalign or Damon Clear Braces. The Damon System is based on a unique treatment philosophy that goes beyond straight teeth. Dr. Stevenson and Dr. Hanis are trained to take the whole patient into account: the shape of your face, your profile, what you will look like into your 40s, 50s...and beyond.

Many people see a noticeable change, not just in their teeth, but in their entire face. We call it the Damon System Bracelift™and it produces:

  • A fuller, wider smile
  • Better facial balance and aesthetics
  • Smoother cheek contours which make narrow smiles look fuller and more inviting
  • Fewer dark triangles within the corners of your mouth
  • Straighter, less crowded & crooked teeth
  • Improved profiles...for a more youthful look at any age!

Many patients begin to see these dramatic results in as little as ten weeks.

Extraction of Teeth

With conventional braces, orthodontists are often forced to pull teeth in order to create space for crowded teeth. No one likes to have teeth removed and a smile with a full display of teeth often produces a broader, natural smile and a nicer profile. At Stevenson Orthodontics we use the Damon System which uses biologically sensible forces that work with the body's natural adaptive processes to create space naturally, so we can treat most cases without extraction. In the few cases which still require extraction, space is made to improve facial balance and symmetry to provide a natural smile and profile that will last as you age.