When should I see an Orthodontist?

What age should you first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have an orthodontic check up before the age of 7.

The reason for this examination are to check the position of molars when they first erupt.  At this time the orthodontist can evaluate the position of the molars and the relationship of the biting surfaces.  This allows the doctor to discover any functional shifts or cross-bite as well.

At this time incisors (front teeth) have begun to erupt and problems can be detected such as crowding, biting issues, habits with tongue or fingers and also any jaw problems.

For some patients this allows the doctor to start early treatment. This early treatment can be beneficial when the patient is growing and significantly reduce later treatment time.

Resources:

www.braces.org

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How Long Does it Take to Straighten Teeth?

How long does it take to straighten teeth?

This question is easiest answered by saying everyone has different problems with their teeth so everyone is different.  The average patient who has a traditional set of braces will take anywhere from 18-24 months to get the best result.  Patients will begin to see changes in there teeth as early as the first week.  Typically the teeth only take a few months to just straighten them into an arch shape, but there are usually other things that need to be corrected.

Which way is the fastest to straighten my teeth?
           Each person is different and each problem is different.  The best way to find out is to have a consultation with your orthodontist.  He can check the way your teeth fit together and give you some different ideas to decide which way you should go with finding the best way to straighten your teeth.

St. Louis Home Opener 2013

All of our Century Orthodontic staff were excited today for our Cardinals!

We all dressed in red or Cardinals gear to show our support.  Pictures will follow later today as we take time from our busy work day to have a little fun and enjoy the Cardinals.  If any of our patients or friends are at the game today please share your photos by tagging us on your smile on facebook or sharing your photo on twitter using #centuryortho or @centuryortho!!  Can't wait to see your pictures!!!

Why are Braces like Trains

Trains and teeth and Orthodontics…

Here is another way to help you get done faster

 if you are supposed to wear elastic bands!

Think of your teeth as individual train boxcars….

 

Think of the arch wire (connecting

the individual teeth together) as the railroad track, guiding the movement of the boxcars

Finally, the train cannot move without an engine…nor can your teeth move without the power of your elastic bands.

Moral of this story…..If you’re not wearing your elastics, your orthodontic train is sitting on a siding in the middle of nowhere not getting anywhere. 

 Wear your elastics and get to your destination…. your braces off and a great smile!

 

So get moving!!!!

Skate Party Success!

The 2013 Skate Party went over very well!  We had over 180 skaters and parents and friends who came to enjoy their Saturday evening with us.

Just Skating Around

Our patients loved the prizes this year.

Ipad Mini

The T-shirts this year were designed with a Mardi Gras Alligator and, they were green with purple lettering.

Our staff handed out T-shirts and raffle tickets as patients and their friends walked into the Skate Port.

Not only did our patients have fun but so did our staff.

Shannon & her daughter Abby

Shannon & Megan

Lily (Angi's daughter) & Angi

Here are some more photos: