Many parents here in Goodyear think they must wait until their child has all permanent teeth, only to find that treatment would have been much simpler if started earlier. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. So, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven.

What’s so special about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist 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, Dr. Mike says.

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 detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call at Hilgers Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

"Hilgers Orthodontics provides excellent service and top notch care. Their front desk and office staff are friendly and accommodating. The waiting area is spacious and not only kid friendly with video games to keep them occupied but parent friendly with computers and lots of comfy seating. Doctor Hilgers is one of the most caring and involved providers I have ever seen. Recently my son became ill just before a procedure and he said it was no problem if we left and came back later. He also made sure we got the next available appointment when my son got better. Another time when we were overlooked in the waiting room and they did not get to us until late, Doctor Hilgers gave us a gift card and apologized profusely. Most doctors’ offices would not have even said they were sorry. I highly recommend Hilgers Orthodontics modern, well managed establishment to anyone! You would also be wise to check out his wife’s Pediatric Dentistry office too! Many Thanks to Doctor Hilgers and his team!" - Jacob H.

"It is unfortunately rare to find a doctor's office that has consistently exceptional service from the front office to the medical staff. Hilger's Orthodontics has just that. The front office is friendly and efficient. The medical staff is kind, patient and incredibly knowledgeable." - Holly

"I gave five stars because I was really nervous. But when I got there I relaxed a lot everyone made me feel important and the video games helped me not thank so much of why I'm there. Thank You to my friend who told me I should go there. My mom really likes it there too. Everyone was so nice to her too." - Mayah

"I love the staff and truly appreciate the above and beyond customer care my 3 boys and I have received so far. Tanya is amazing and is very thorough in explaining everything that will take place from evaluation, films, follow-up appts and length of time each boy will be in braces. Thank you so much." - Andrew

Visiting your dentist during your orthodontic treatment will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy while you have braces, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Your dentist is specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next adjustment appointment. Take care of your teeth!

When you visit Hilgers Orthodontics for your orthodontic consultation, you’ll probably have a lot of questions. We want you to be prepared for your appointment and feel in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind to ask when you come in for your appointment:

• How long will I have to wear braces?
• Will getting braces hurt?
• Will I have to wear additional appliances to correct jaw problems while I have braces?
• What can I eat when I have braces?
• Are there certain things, like playing sports or playing an instrument, which I won’t be able to do?
• How can I make sure my teeth stay clean and healthy while I have braces?
• How often will I need to come in for appointments?
• How much will my orthodontic treatment cost?

Dr. Michael Hilgers and team are here to answer all your questions and concerns, and we’re happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan and expected outcome. We believe your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you smiling! Serving Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Avondale and Buckeye, AZ, Dr. Hilgers proudly offers Invisalign and braces for children, teens, and adults. See you soon!