Orthodontics
Lake Forest, IL – If you’ve been thinking about straightening your smile, or are wondering if your child might benefit from orthodontic treatment, one common question may come to mind. That is “Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?”
At Deerpath Orthodontics and Family Dental, Dr. Michael Stosich and his team make it a priority for families throughout the Lake Forest area to be able to access high-quality care that results in beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Here is everything you need to know about starting your orthodontic journey.
So, do I need a referral?
The short answer is no – you don’t need a referral from a dentist to start your journey to a better smile. While we do have many patients who are referred to us by their family dentist, that is not a requirement to receive care. If you have concerns about your or your child’s smile, you can absolutely contact us directly to set up a consultation.
Why might a dentist refer you or your child to an orthodontist?
A referral is not required to start orthodontic treatment, but there are many instances where a dentist may refer you or your child. These can include:
- Early signs of crowding or impacted teeth
- Bite issues, like underbites, overbites, or crossbites
- Jaw growth issues in growing children
If you receive a referral from a dentist, that means your dentist has identified an issue that requires the expertise of a specialist. However, if you have concerns that your dentist hasn’t mentioned, you don’t need to wait.
When should you schedule a consultation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic consultation by the age of 7. This is for several reasons.
At this age, your child will most likely have a mix of permanent and baby teeth, so Dr. Stosich can start to see how the smile is taking shape. He can look at things like how the back teeth are aligned and how the jaws fit in relationship to one another. Being able to catch issues early means that they can be corrected at the precise time, and you can avoid bigger issues in the future.
And if you are an adult, you’re never too old to begin orthodontic treatment. Even if you had braces in your youth, if you notice an issue with your bite or you feel your smile isn’t as straight as it could be, now is the time to discover the power of orthodontics. If you’ve dealt with issues like jaw pain for your entire life, or you’ve hidden a less-than-ideal smile, orthodontics can help.
Take the first step today
Even if your dentist hasn’t made a referral, you can take the first step toward a new smile today. The team at Deerpath Orthodontics and Family Dental is here to help you prioritize your oral health and get the smile of your dreams. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation – 847-579-4979.
