Your initial consultation is complimentary and will give you the opportunity to meet Dr. Wiggins and her team, learn more about orthodontics, receive a complete initial exam, and find out which treatment options will best meet your needs. During your initial consultation, we will:
- Review your dental and medical history forms
- Perform a complete oral exam, with X-rays, to determine whether treatment is necessary
- Help you create a customized treatment plan
- Explain all costs associated with treatment, help explain your insurance benefits and discuss payment options.
Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist as early as age seven. At this point, Dr. Wiggins will evaluate whether your child may need orthodontic treatment.
Early treatment (also known as Phase I) typically begins around age eight or nine (Phase II will begin around age 11 or older). The goal of early treatment is to correct the growth of the jaw and certain bite problems, such as crossbite. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, lessening the chance of extractions in the future.
How to tell if your child may need early orthodontic treatment:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth (your child should typically start losing teeth around age five, and will have all permanent teeth around age 13)
- Difficulty chewing and/or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Your child continues sucking his or her thumb after age five
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth (the top teeth and the bottom teeth extend away from each other)
- Teeth that don't come together in a normal manner or even at all
- Shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes his or her mouth (crossbites)
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your family dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact us and schedule a complimenary consultation. Dr. Wiggins will discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child's smile.