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Setting Kids Up for Healthy Smiles
Why Early Orthodontic Visits MatterStarting early can make all the difference. Dr. Tingey and Dr. Gross love helping kids feel comfortable while keeping an eye on how their smiles are developing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up around age seven.
By this age, most kids have a mix of baby and adult teeth, which lets Dr. Tingey and Dr. Gross spot potential issues early—like crowding, bite problems, or jaw growth concerns. Early evaluation often means treatment can be simpler, faster, and less invasive later on.
It’s a simple first step that sets the foundation for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.
How We Can Help Early On
Early orthodontic care can make a world of difference for growing smiles. By starting treatment while your child’s jaw and teeth are still developing, Dr. Tingey and Dr. Gross can:
- Guide jaw growth to help permanent teeth come in straight
- Create room for crowded teeth
- Encourage healthier bite alignment
- Reduce the chance of needing extractions later
- Improve speech issues related to thumb sucking or misaligned teeth
Early care can also make future orthodontics easier, shorter, and more comfortable.
When to Come to Tingey Orthodontics
Wondering if it’s time for your child’s first visit? Keep an eye out for these common signs:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting into food
- Mouth breathing most of the time
- Frequent thumb or finger sucking
- Teeth that are crowded or don’t line up properly
- Jaws that pop, click, or seem off-center
- Teeth that meet abnormally or don’t meet at all
- Crowded front teeth around age 7 or 8
If you notice any of these, or just have questions about your child’s smile, our team is here to help. Schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about how early care can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Orthodontics for Teens
Braces, retainers, and everything in between—let’s make it simple.
Hearing “You need braces” doesn’t have to feel intimidating. Today’s orthodontics is a whole new experience: more comfortable, more aesthetic, and more personalized than ever. At Tingey Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, so you (and your teen) know exactly what to expect.
What Happens Next?
Once we’ve decided that orthodontic treatment is the right choice, we’ll create a plan tailored to your smile goals. Treatment length can vary based on a few things:
- Timing matters. Starting treatment early can guide jaw growth and prevent bigger issues later.
- Your smile needs. Simple alignment can take less time; more complex adjustments might take longer.
- Consistency counts. Wearing elastics and caring for braces as directed helps keep treatment on track—and sometimes even speeds things up.
Most teens wear braces for about 18–24 months, but every case is unique.
Braces That Fit Your Style
Gone are the days of “one size fits all.” We offer options that work with your lifestyle, including:
- Metal braces: Durable and reliable, with colorful elastics to show your style.
- Ceramic braces: Tooth-colored brackets for a low-profile look.
- Self-ligating braces: Sleek design that can mean fewer appointments.
- Clear aligners: A nearly invisible way to straighten teeth (ideal for mild to moderate cases).
Why Choose Tingey Orthodontics?
Our team understands that teen orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about confidence. We’ll help you feel comfortable, informed, and excited about your new smile. Plus, our office is a place where you’ll feel welcome (and maybe even have some fun along the way).
Ready to learn more or schedule your complimentary consultation? Reach out today—we can’t wait to meet you.
Orthodontics for Adults
You’re never too old to invest in a smile you love. These days, more adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment—not just for aesthetics, but for their overall health and confidence. Whether you’ve always wanted straighter teeth, or you’re experiencing issues like snoring, sleep apnea, or jaw discomfort, orthodontics can make a real impact.
Common reasons adults start treatment:
- Crowded or spaced teeth that make cleaning difficult
- Bite issues causing wear, pain, or headaches
- Sleep problems, including snoring and airway concerns
- Desire for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile
Treatment Options for Adults
Forget everything you thought you knew about braces. Today’s options are designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle and look as subtle (or as bold) as you’d like. We offer:
- Clear aligners (Invisalign®) for nearly invisible treatment
- Self-ligating braces for less friction and fewer appointments
- Ceramic braces that blend in with your teeth
- Traditional metal braces for reliable results
If you’re ready to feel better, breathe easier, and love your smile, we’re here to help. Let’s find the right treatment plan that works for you, your schedule, and your goals.
The difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontics for children and teens:
The main difference to remember when treating adults or children and teens, is that in younger patients the jawbones are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may mean the possibility of orthognathic surgery to align the jawbones. Other differences include:
- Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.
- Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
- Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.
Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.
Why should you consider orthodontic treatment?
- Straight teeth are healthy teeth — Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing, and may help prevent other health problems.
- A beautiful, straight smile builds confidence — Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!
- Mouths left untreated can get worse — Not receiving orthodontic treatment when it's needed can create long-term health issues costing you more in the end.
To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics please contact our practice to schedule an appointment. We understand that you have a busy schedule, and we will work with you to make sure each office visit is as convenient as possible.
