Age 7 is the magic number for an orthodontic check-up

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Zammitti for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Zammitti to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Zammitti Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Ask Dr. Zammitti: What’s so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Zammitti Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, or Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Zammitti or visit this article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

-Your friends at Zammitti Orthodontics

Ask Dr. Zammitti: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Zammitti Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Zammitti the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

What are patients saying about Zammitti Orthodontics?

Dr. Sal Zammitti specializes in orthodontic treatment for adults and children in the greater Charlotte, NC area. Have you seen this great patient testimonial video? If not, take a minute to watch and learn what real patients of all ages have to say about their experience at Zammitti Orthodontics!

Dr. Zammitti is a certified Invisalign and Invisalign Teen provider. Invisalign straightens teeth invisibly without the need for metal brackets or wires, and the clear aligners are easily removable. Our practice also offers SureSmile, to get you in and out of braces fast! To learn more, please visit our website or call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

What are patients saying about Zammitti Orthodontics?

On the Mecklenburg and Cabarrus county line. Serving Charlotte, along with surrounding areas of Concord, Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville and Kannapolis, Zammitti Orthodontics has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Sal Zammitti and team!

"I think that all of the staff is absolutely sweet and great. The boys just love coming into the office and seeing everybody. This is a much better experience then what I thought it would be!" ~ Michael D.

"Mandy was excellent the whole time we were in there with both Isaac and Caroline. She really took her time and explained all the details of the procedures that will take place." ~ Isaac M.

"Staff is very friendly. My son really likes coming there." ~ Joshua L.

"The game room, aquarium, children books, magazines, self check-in, friendly staff, award tokens and a great Orthodontist could not be better!" ~ Amber O.

"Cannot improve perfection!!!!" ~ Elizabeth M.

Zammitti Orthodontics, distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics

Dr. Zammitti is well-aware that there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, he thinks you should get the facts! Our team at Zammitti Orthodontics came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Zammitti Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call.

What is your New Year's Resolution?

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2009 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2010? Do you have a new years resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at Zammitti Orthodontics!