Birmingham & Milford Orthodontics for All Ages
Smiles for Every Generation
At Degenhardt Orthodontics, we offer personalized orthodontic care for every stage of life. Whether your child needs early intervention, your teen is ready for braces, or you’re an adult looking for a discreet solution, we have the expertise and treatment options to help orthodontic patients of all ages.
Early Treatment When Needed
Why Start Orthodontic Care Early?
The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. Steve recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven.
Early assessments help us monitor jaw growth, detect potential issues, and intervene when necessary to guide their developing smile. Early treatment is only a “when-needed” option, and we will never encourage you to seek treatment that isn't in your child's or your family's best interest.
Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit
At their first appointment, Dr. Steve will assess your child’s bite, jaw alignment, and emerging teeth. In many cases, no immediate treatment is needed, and we will monitor their growth with regular checkups.
This is a short, simple visit for you and your child. Depending on your child’s age and development an x-ray may be taken. In addition, Dr. Steve will use nothing more than a mirror!
Common Early Orthodontic Concerns
Early orthodontic evaluations help us identify potential concerns before they require more complex treatment. Addressing these issues early can make future orthodontic care more effective and efficient.
Crowding & Spacing Issues
Misaligned or overcrowded teeth can affect chewing, speech, and overall oral health. Early intervention can help create room for emerging adult teeth and reduce the need for extractions later.
Protruding Front Teeth
Teeth that stick out too far can be more prone to injury. Addressing this early can protect your child’s teeth from trauma and improve bite alignment.
Bite Alignment Problems
Crossbites, underbites, and overbites can cause jaw discomfort, uneven tooth wear, and difficulty chewing. Identifying these concerns early allows us to guide jaw development properly.
- Protruding front teeth
- Crossbites, underbites, or overbites
- Jaw growth irregularities
The Advantages of Early Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment early can simplify future care and improve long-term oral health.
By guiding jaw growth and tooth alignment, early treatment sets the stage for a healthier, more confident smile.
Supporting Proper Jaw Development
Early orthodontic care helps guide the development of the upper and lower jaw, ensuring proper function and symmetry as your child grows.
Reducing the Need for Future Extractions
When there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth, extractions may be needed later. Early treatment can create room for adult teeth to emerge naturally.
Airway Health
Airway health is closely linked to facial development and overall well-being. An early exam with Dr. Steve can help identify potential anatomical or breathing pattern concerns that can contribute to sleep disordered breathing.
Addressing these issues early can help minimize complications or irreversible changes and promote the most optimal development of your child’s airway, jaw, and overall well-being.
Preventing More Complex Orthodontic Issues
By addressing concerns early, we can often reduce the length and complexity of future orthodontic treatment, making the process easier and more effective for your child.
Orthodontics for Teens
The Best Time for Orthodontic Treatment
Teenage years are the most common time for orthodontic treatment.
At this stage, the jaw is still developing, making it an ideal time to correct misalignments, improve function, and build confidence through a straighter smile.
Braces & Clear Aligners for Teens
Teens have multiple orthodontic options to fit their lifestyle, from traditional braces to nearly invisible aligners. Each option provides effective treatment with different benefits to match their needs.
Metal Braces
Durable and efficient, metal braces are a reliable choice for correcting moderate to severe orthodontic concerns. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever.
Clear Braces
With tooth-colored brackets, clear braces provide the strength of traditional braces while blending in with your teen’s smile for a more subtle look.
Clear Aligners
For teens who prefer a more flexible, low-profile treatment, clear aligners offer a removable and virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without brackets and wires. A strong, effective option for all orthodontic needs
Why Orthodontic Care Matters for Teens
A straight smile can improve both oral health and self-confidence, making orthodontic treatment an essential investment during the teen years.
Boosting Confidence
A healthy, aligned smile helps teens feel more confident in social settings, at school, and in extracurricular activities.
Preventing Long-Term Dental Issues
Straightening teeth early helps reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and uneven wear, ensuring long-term oral health.
Enhancing Speech & Chewing Function
Proper alignment improves speech clarity and chewing efficiency, reducing strain on the jaw and supporting overall dental function.
Orthodontic Solutions
Designed for Adults
It’s Never Too Late for a Beautiful Smile
More adults than ever are seeking orthodontic care to improve their smiles and oral health.
Whether correcting lifelong misalignment or addressing shifting teeth later in life, we offer discreet and effective treatment options.
Is Adult Treatment Right For Me?
Dr. Steve constantly hears from adults who’ve told him that other specialists have said they’ll need painful major surgery or invasive treatment to fix their bite.
This couldn’t be further from the truth!
In many cases, Dr. Steve can correct your bite with non-surgical clear aligner or braces treatment. He loves treating adults, and wants you to know that your smile has options!
The Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment than ever before, and modern options make it easier to achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Improving Oral Health & Function
Orthodontic treatment corrects misalignment, reducing the risk of gum disease, uneven wear, and TMJ discomfort.
A Confidence Boost at Any Age
A straight, healthy smile can enhance personal and professional interactions, making a positive first impression wherever you go.
Discreet Treatment Options
From clear aligners to ceramic braces, today’s orthodontic solutions allow adults to straighten their teeth without the visibility of traditional braces.
Orthodontic Options for Adults
- Clear Aligners: A nearly invisible solution for flexible treatment
- Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets for a subtle appearance
- Metal Braces: Ideal for complex cases requiring maximum efficiency
A Smile for Every Stage of Life
Orthodontic treatment can benefit children, teens, and adults alike. No matter your age, Degenhardt Orthodontics is here to provide expert care and customized solutions for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Schedule your free consultation today!