Growth Modification With Orthodontics

In the past, parents have been told that the ideal time to bring their kids in for their first orthodontist appointment is as soon as all of their permanent teeth have erupted, which is typically around age 12, for adolescent treatment. Unfortunately, by this time many dental issues may have already developed, meaning that orthodontic treatment would take longer than what was actually necessary to correct them.

At Pedodontics, your local pediatric dental and orthodontic experts in Omaha, we recommend that your child receive orthodontic treatment at an earlier age. Our orthodontist, Dr. Lisa Strunk, suggests child orthodontics between the ages of 6 and 11. All of their permanent teeth may not have come in yet, but their jaw and facial bones are still rapidly developing. Just like teeth can come in crooked, the jaw and facial bones can also grow in different directions that are not ideal, leading to various dental issues. Once your child has reached age 12, this development is usually complete, and can be much more difficult to correct. That’s why adolescent treatment may not be the best for every child, in these cases child orthodontics are better.

What Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Do For My Child?

Interceptive orthodontic care is designed to prevent dental issues in children, guiding their growth to create an ideal dental environment for future development and ensure optimal oral health. While many think that orthodontics is strictly about straightening teeth with braces, treatment is actually broken up into two different phases.

• Phase 1: Phase one is more focused on treating potentially big problems such as jaw problems, horizontal and vertical bite problems, dental arch expansion, and bad dental habits.

• Phase 2: Braces are phase two.

Using special orthodontic appliances specifically for children, all of these issues can be treated before prior to getting braces, making for a faster and more comfortable orthodontic treatment.

Fortifying Self-Esteem

During their teen years, your child may become more self conscious in school among their friends. By starting your children on an early orthodontic treatment plan prior to adolescent treatment, you can ensure that their experience with braces is as comfortable as possible, and they get enjoy a new, perfect smile! Another great way to increase your child’s confidence while undergoing orthodontic treatment is with clear braces (ceramic braces). This option is much more discreet, unnoticeable, and will allow your child to smile with confidence even while wearing braces! Ask Dr. Lisa Strunk about clear braces today!

Schedule Your Child’s Next Appointment With Our Omaha Orthodontist!

If you want to make sure that you children can enjoy a future full of healthy smiles, contact Pedodontics today and schedule an appointment. We’ll answer any questions that you and your child may have about early orthodontic treatment, and work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your individual needs. We proudly serve the families of Omaha and the surrounding communities our of our local orthodontic office. We look forward to helping transform your children’s smiles!