Orthodontics

Orthodontics for Children

Orthodontic care plays a crucial role in the early stages of a child’s dental development. We believe in proactive, preventative care to ensure that every child has the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Why Is Early Orthodontic Evaluation Important?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. At this age, our doctor can identify potential issues, including misaligned bites, overcrowding, and jaw growth irregularities. Early detection allows us to create a plan to guide your child’s oral development, often reducing the need for more extensive treatment later.

What Is Phase One Treatment?

Phase One, or interceptive orthodontics, focuses on treating significant issues while your child’s jaw is still growing. This approach helps:

  • Guide jaw development: Ensures proper alignment and growth.
  • Improve bite function: Corrects underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
  • Create space: Saves room for permanent teeth to come in properly.
  • Minimize extractions: Reduces the likelihood of needing tooth removal.
  • Prevent oral habits: Addresses thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.

Key Benefits: By addressing these concerns early, your child can enjoy better oral health and improved self-esteem, making their transition to adolescence smoother and more confident.

Monitoring Your Child’s Growth

If your child doesn’t require immediate treatment, our doctor offers a recall observation program. This program allows us to monitor your child’s dental development every 6–12 months and determine the perfect time to begin treatment.

Orthodontics for Teens

The teenage years are an ideal time for orthodontic care. By this age, most permanent teeth have erupted, and it’s easier to identify and address alignment issues. We specialize in creating customized solutions that fit your teen’s lifestyle while helping them achieve their best smile.

Common Issues Treated During Adolescence:

  • Crooked or crowded teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
  • Jaw alignment issues
  • Teeth grinding or clenching

Braces for Teens

Modern braces are more comfortable and stylish than ever, and teens can even customize them with colorful elastics. For those seeking a more discreet option, we also offer clear ceramic braces and Invisalign®.

How Long Will My Teen Need Braces?

The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case but typically lasts between 18 and 24 months. Compliance plays a significant role—by following our instructions and attending all appointments, your teen can achieve their ideal results more quickly.

Encouraging Your Teen’s Cooperation:

  • Use positive reinforcement to keep them motivated.
  • Provide orthodontic-friendly snacks.
  • Remind them to wear elastics and maintain proper hygiene.

Retainers: Keeping Your Smile Perfect

Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers are essential for maintaining your results. Teeth naturally shift over time, and wearing a retainer ensures your beautiful new smile stays in place.

Types of Retainers We Offer:

  • Hawley retainers: Durable and adjustable with an acrylic base.
  • Essix retainers: Clear, discreet, and easy to wear.
  • Fixed retainers: A bonded option for long-term stability.
  • Vivera™ Invisalign® Retainers: Keep your teeth from shifting and your smile the way you want it with Vivera retainers.

Invisalign®

Invisalign offers a clear, comfortable, and convenient alternative to traditional braces. Using a series of clear, custom-made aligners, Invisalign gradually shifts your teeth into place without the hassle of metal brackets.

Why Choose Invisalign?

  1. Invisible Treatment
    Clear aligners blend naturally with your smile, so others won’t notice you’re wearing them.
  2. Comfort and Flexibility
    With no metal brackets or wires, Invisalign aligners are smooth and gentle on your mouth.
  3. Freedom to Eat What You Love
    Remove your aligners when eating and drinking, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods.
  4. Fewer Visits
    Invisalign requires fewer appointments than traditional braces, saving you time.
  5. Precise Results
    Using advanced 3D technology, we’ll create a custom plan that shows you how your teeth will move at each stage of treatment.