An Orthodontist is defined as a specialist who graduated from dental school and full-time university based orthodontic residency program. Dr. Bennett is an expert on growth, facial development, teeth, and jaw alignment. Our practice is limited to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Today, orthodontic treatment is simple, convenient and affordable for patients of all ages, and an attractive smile is just one of the benefits. Orthodontic treatment results in correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile! Additionally, your teeth are easier to clean and more resistant to gum disease. Perhaps most importantly, orthodontic treatment almost always provides improved self-confidence.
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
To serve the need for the families in our practice who have younger siblings, we would like to introduce our Mobile Bay Kids’ Club. The Kids’ Club has been developed to offer family members under the age of 6 who are not currently patients a complimentary orthodontic evaluation at the appropriate time with the Bennett orthodontic team. When a patient becomes a part of our practice, we feel a responsibility to the entire family.
The most common time for orthodontic treatment occurs between the ages of 11 and 15. By the age of 12, most if not all of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, and crooked teeth, gaps and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems will rarely correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment.
However, braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.