Family Smile Plan with 7-and-up club
One of the most common questions asked of orthodontists by parents, patients and even dentists is 'When should a patient first visit the orthodontist?" Our Family Smile Plan addresses this question and offers solutions to all members of your family.
The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists join in the suggestion that patients first visit the orthodontist at age 7.
Drs. Grob and Loop share this concern and have devoted several years researching, publishing and practicing the Treatment by Twelve's TM philosophy.
For simplicity, the philosophy places patients into 3 groups based on our tooth eruption chart.
The FIRST TWELVE PERMANENT TEETH erupt between the ages of 6 and 9 and Face First Treatment is offered during this period.
The NEXT TWELVE PERMANENT TEETH usually appear between ages 10 and 14 and many have suggested that the treatment provided during this period the Gold Standard.
The FOUR TWELVE-YEAR MOLARS are fully in place by about age 15 and beyond which is when early treatment is completed or when patients who have not had the benefit of other interventions are treated.
This philosophy and various treatments are based on the research of noted orthodontic educators Gianelly, McNammara, Becker and others.
7 and Up Club for those not quite ready for treatment
The pediatric dental team will be constantly evaluating for orthodontic needs and concerns and will discuss with you the value of an orthodontic evaluation during recare visits.
To help, the orthodontic staff is available almost always to take a couple basic photos for patients and will review at each recall visit.
These photos will be added to your dental chart and will be made available for future examinations.
Many patients after being evaluated for treatment are best placed on recall schedules varying between 6 and 12 months. (the 7 and up club)
There is no charge - visits are important to evaluate habits, medical conditions that contribute to tooth crowding as well as growth of the jaws.
At the proper time, orthodontic care will be suggested.