Orthodontics at Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon
Nearly all teens benefit from orthodontic treatment that is designed to move their permanent teeth into proper alignment for a healthy bite and esthetic smile. We work together with our patients’ parents to help teens have the harmonious function, attractive profile, and beautiful smile that gives them confidence and sets the stage for a lifetime of optimal oral health.
Some children benefit from wearing oral appliances prior to when their permanent teeth have all erupted and then receive braces for a second phase of orthodontics in their early teen years. We are evaluating our patients every time they visit to determine if and when orthodontic treatment should be recommended based upon the child or teen’s unique dental development. We spend as much time with you as needed to explain the circumstances and provide you with appropriate treatment choices.
At Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon, we have expertise treating teens with both traditional bracket and wire braces and Invisalign Teen® clear aligners. The latter is the top choice among teens and parents, but there are circumstances when bracket and wire braces are needed, for at least a time, to move teeth in ways the aligner technology cannot.
We know you don’t want to compromise when it comes to straightening your child’s teeth. When it comes to your child’s orthodontic condition, we only recommend what has been proven to be effective for circumstances like your child’s. We offer you both the best treatment options possible and the supportive information and counseling you need.
We also know you don’t want your child’s self-esteem to be injured by peer comments about their teeth. For that reason, we want you to be aware that teeth are the primary object of peer ridicule during the teen years.
The American Association of Orthodontists Recommends Orthodontic Evaluation by Age 7
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that by age seven children should have already undergone their first orthodontic checkup. There are a number of oral conditions that may cause kids to need orthodontic treatment, including:
- open, cross or deep bites
- missing teeth
- crowding
- overjets
- spacing
At Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon, our doctors provide a free orthodontic evaluation for each child who visits for a new patient exam or regular six month checkup. By undergoing their first orthodontic checkup by age seven, your children can have their orthodontic problems identified and possibly solved earlier. The sooner orthodontic issues are recognized, the greater the chances of your kids experiencing fewer complications in the future.
Although you may not be able to see your children’s orthodontic problems, we can detect developing issues even before permanent teeth erupt. For example, baby teeth with little or no spacing between them usually indicate that the permanent teeth will be crowded. So even if you think your kids do not need orthodontic attention, it is essential that they undergo regular checkups.
And, even though most orthodontic treatment is typically delayed until children reached 11 or 12 years of age, we now believe that severe crowding problems should be treated earlier. At Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon, our doctors utilize a form of severe crowding therapy known as Early Arch Development. It is advisable to begin this treatment early because it can help improve the alignment of your kids’ teeth and their self-image during their elementary school years.
Here’s a sample of Early Arch Development:
