Here at Envy Smile Dental Spa we are able to provide a complete range of orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages, including children, teenagers and adults. We do keep a close eye on the development of a young child’s teeth and jaws as our kids orthodontist knows that early interceptive orthodontic treatment can be extremely effective in correcting problems, particularly those that may have been caused by oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking.
Why Visiting Kids Orthodontist Rather Sooner Than Later Is Important
If we think your child may have some problems with their bite or with the arrangement of their teeth then we will suggest they have an orthodontic evaluation with our kids orthodontist at the age of six or seven. This might seem very early but in fact it can be the ideal age to think about treatment. When a child is very young, their bones are still developing and this enables us to use functional appliances to help guide the growth of their jaws so they are the correct size and shape to accommodate their adult teeth. Using functional appliances can help reduce the amount of time your child will need to wear conventional fixed braces during their teens (read also about Invisalign Teen orthodontic treatment designed specifically for teenagers). It also helps to reduce the need for extraction of permanent teeth, which is something we feel is highly desirable.
How Early Orthodontic Evaluation Can Help
A child’s thumb sucking habit can change the shape of the upper jaw, pulling it outwards and forwards so it becomes elongated and narrow. Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment can help with this problem. The use of a functional appliance such as a palatal expander will help to gently expand the upper jaw so the upper teeth will come into the correct relationship with the lower teeth while ensuring there is plenty of room for all the upper teeth to be accommodated.
What Are the Symptoms That My Child Might Have a Poor Bite?
We do regularly evaluate all our young patients for bite problems, but you may notice some of the following symptoms that could indicate your child has an issue with the way their teeth are arranged. Possible symptoms include noticing they have difficulty chewing or biting, or they may grind or clench their teeth at night. Sometimes poorly arranged teeth can cause speech problems.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Most parents and caregivers want their child to have an attractive smile, but carefully planned orthodontic treatment can help do so much more. By using the latest technology, kids orthodontist can help your child achieve their full potential by creating a more attractive facial profile, giving results that will last for life. This can help to significantly boost self-esteem and self-confidence. Additionally, straighter teeth are healthy teeth as your child will find much easier to keep clean, decreasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Personalized Care for Every Patient
Every child attending a pediatric orthodontist at our practice does receive personalized care as we want to ensure they get the most appropriate treatment for their needs. We take a great deal of trouble to ensure our young patients are kept comfortable and our dental office is designed to provide a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.