Ages

Orthodontists For All Ages Gainesville And Lake City Florida

Ready to Improve Your Smile?

The beauty of orthodontic treatment is that it can start young or at any time beyond the teenage years.

While our Gainesville and Lake City, FL, orthodontists have worked with plenty of children and teens, we’ve also helped countless adults and seniors as well.

If you’re after that dream smile and improved oral health, go for it! There is no “perfect” patient.

Children

It is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) that children undergo an orthodontic evaluation around or by the time they turn 7 years old. This is because, at this age, your child will have a mixture of baby and permanent teeth which is an ideal time to check for any arising orthodontic problems.

Aside from an oral exam, our orthodontists will ask you questions about your child’s oral health and work with their primary dentist to pin down the exact issues that require corrective treatment. Making adjustments to their smile is much easier at a younger age when there is still growth potential.

Signs your child may require orthodontics include:

Premature loss of baby teeth
Late loss of baby teeth
Overly crowded or misplaced teeth
Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
Excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth
Obvious crossbite, underbite, overbite, or open bite
History of prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use

It is common for two phases of treatment to be needed with children. Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is done prior to placing full braces (Phase 2) and often consists of therapies such as headgear, palatal expanders, space maintainers, and retainers.

Teens

Whether or not your teenager underwent Phase 1 treatment with us, we’ll meet them where they are. The teen years are a popular time for braces and clear aligners so our orthodontists are well-versed in navigating both the aesthetic desires of patients and their dental problems that require correction. Dress your metal braces up with colorful bands or fly under the radar with clear aligners – both are possible!

Adults

Did you know that 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today are adults? The landscape of orthodontics has changed over the years and more adults are realizing they too deserve to have a beautiful smile! We have several options available for adults depending on what their preferences and ultimate dental needs are.

Metal braces are always a great choice but if you prefer to be a bit more subtle at work or around others, our orthodontists can help you get started with ceramic braces or clear aligners.

Reinvent Your Smile at Any Age

No matter where you’re at in life, our orthodontists in Gainesville and Lake City, FL, can work with you to align your teeth and jaws for a beautiful result. Call one of our Progressive Orthodontic Associates offices today or request an appointment online.