Orthodontics for Children

While orthodontic treatment can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time to begin. We specialize in pediatric orthodontics to detect issues early and guide your child's development for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Early Treatment Retention Orthognathic Surgery

Early Treatment & Screening

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, interceptive orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?

By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment include:

Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Preserving space for unerupted teeth
Reducing the need for tooth removal
Reducing treatment time with braces

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Ultimately, orthodontics creates a healthier you.

Retention

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a lifetime. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.

Removable Retainers

Maxillary wrap-around retainers are your upper retainers, which are removable. You must be very careful when handling your upper retainers, as they are fragile and costly to replace. To clean these retainers, brush them with toothpaste using warm water.

Your retainers should be worn at all times with the exception of eating and brushing your teeth. After 12 months of full-time wear, we may revise your retention treatment, allowing the retainer to strictly be worn at night.

Orthognathic Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones, specifically the jaws and the teeth. Often, these abnormalities cause difficulty associated with chewing, talking, sleeping and other routine activities.

Using the latest in digital imaging technology, we will demonstrate the overall functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery. Computerized treatment planning minimizes treatment times, recovery periods and the overall efficacy of your surgery. State-of-the-art materials provide stability, strength and predictability.