Give Your Child a Lifetime of Smiles
Your child deserves properly aligned teeth and jaws for a happy, healthy smile. While the ideal age for orthodontic care differs for each child, Dr. Cameron Freelove, DDS and the American Association of Orthodontists suggest an initial check-up around age seven.
What is Early Treatment?
Early orthodontic care at Freelove Orthodontics can help prevent or manage more serious issues down the road, often simplifying future treatment and lowering costs. In some cases, Dr. Cameron Freelove, DDS, can achieve outcomes during a child’s growth phase that wouldn’t be possible later.
When is the Best Time for Treatment?
The ideal age for your child’s first evaluation is around age 7. Although braces are usually recommended between ages 9 and 14, some orthodontic concerns—such as underbites—are easier to correct as early as age 7.
Role of a Children’s Orthodontist
Interceptive orthodontics, also known as early orthodontic treatment, focuses on correcting dental issues early on to avoid major complications in the future. Advantages include:
Preventing severe
dental issues
A vibrant, confident smile can boost your self-esteem and leave a lasting positive impact on those around you.
Improving appearance
and confidence
Prompt care reduces hassle, costs, and pain.
Enhancing oral health
Straight teeth are simpler to clean, lowering the chances of tooth decay and gum issues.
Benefits of Children’s
Orthodontic Treatment
Improved Oral Health and Hygiene
Enhanced Speech Development
Prevention of Future Dental Issues
Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem
Understanding Children’s
Orthodontic Treatment
Braces
They are made up of brackets fixed to each tooth and a wire that links them together.
Aligners
These are transparent plastic trays designed to cover the teeth.
Retainers
These are worn after braces or aligners to help maintain teeth’s new alignment.
Space maintainers
These are applied when a child loses a baby tooth earlier than expected.
The American Association of Orthodontists advises scheduling a first orthodontic checkup by the age of seven. Identifying concerns such as bite misalignment or overcrowding early can make treatment easier and help avoid potential challenges later.
Treatment Process
Consultation
Consists of an exam, imaging, and molds.
Appliance Placement
Orthodontic appliances are placed according to the prescribed treatment plan.
Follow-ups
Frequent evaluations to track and maintain progress.
Retention
A retainer is commonly worn post-treatment to preserve the results.
Appointment Duration and Frequency
The length and frequency of orthodontic visits depend on the appliance type and the complexity of the dental condition. Braces are commonly adjusted every four to six weeks, whereas aligners are replaced about every two weeks. Most appointments take between 30 and 60 minutes. Overall treatment timelines can vary widely, lasting anywhere from six months to three years or longer, based on the specific needs of the patient.
Common Orthodontic
Issues in Children
Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, and Spacing Problems
Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Misaligned teeth, often resulting from genetics, thumb sucking, or injuries, can make cleaning challenging, raising the likelihood of cavities and gum issues.
Crowding or
Spacing Issues
Overcrowding happens when there’s not enough room for teeth. Gaps between teeth can trap food particles, which may also lead to decay.
Thumb Sucking and Other Oral Habits
Thumb sucking is common in young children, but extended habits can lead to dental misalignment and alterations in the mouth’s structure.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces can treat a wide array of dental problems, from straightforward to intricate situations.
Components
Brackets, archwires, and ligature elastics.
Benefits
Highly effective for major misalignments, long-lasting, and designed to address various dental concerns.
Clear Aligners
Invisalign and similar clear aligners offer a modern solution to orthodontic treatment.
How They Work
Apply steady pressure to slowly shift teeth, switching to a new set of aligners every two weeks.
Advantages
Subtle, easy to remove for meals and cleaning, and practical for maintaining oral care.
Functional Appliances
Used to resolve jaw growth concerns, functional appliances are mainly advisable for children and teens.
Types
Twin Block, Bionator, and Herbst appliances.
Benefits
Can improve jaw function and facial aesthetics, preventing future dental problems.
Retainers
After completing orthodontic treatment, retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the newly aligned teeth.
Types
Removable (can be taken out for cleaning) and fixed (permanently).
Benefits
Crucial for preserving the outcomes of orthodontic work and ensuring a long-lasting smile.
Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention
Interceptive orthodontics focuses on tackling dental concerns early, while a child’s jaw is still in the growth phase, helping to avoid more complex problems later on. Early treatment offers advantages such as reducing the risk of severe orthodontic issues, enhancing aesthetics, and promoting healthier oral development. For children between 6 and 10 years old, this is an optimal window to address conditions like crowding or crossbites, as their jaw is still maturing. By ages 11 to 15, most permanent teeth are in place, making it an ideal time for braces to correct misalignments.
Finding the Right Pediatric Orthodontist
When selecting an orthodontist for your child in Sammamish and Kent WA, it’s vital to evaluate their credentials. Seek out someone who has undergone specialized orthodontic training, holds board certification, and has experience treating children. Beyond qualifications, take into account practical considerations such as their office location, operating hours, and the overall cost of treatment.
Conclusion
FAQ
What age should a child go to orthodontist?
It’s great to see you taking an active role in your child’s dental health! The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children have their first visit to an orthodontist around the age of seven. While this might sound early, it gives the orthodontist a chance to identify and address any potential problems before they progress. Keep in mind, this initial appointment doesn’t mean your child will need treatment immediately. It’s more about monitoring their growth and ensuring their dental development is proceeding as it should.
Can a 6 year old see an orthodontist?
Of course! A 6-year-old can absolutely see an orthodontist. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists advises that kids should have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. This early visit helps spot any issues with jaw development or incoming teeth. So, if you’re thinking about scheduling an appointment for your child, don’t hesitate! It’s a smart move towards promoting a strong, confident smile for your little one.
How painful are braces for kids?
It’s completely normal for children to feel slight discomfort or soreness when they first get braces or after an adjustment. This occurs because the braces are gradually shifting their teeth into the correct position. The positive side is that this discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Before long, their mouth adapts to the braces, and they may barely even notice they’re there. While braces might cause some minor temporary discomfort, it’s both manageable and short-lived.