Treatment for Children
Little mouths, big smiles –
The first orthodontic consultation should be at the age of 7 according to the American Association of Orthodontists. Why?
By this age, we can detect and begin to address issues such as:
- Crossbites
- Missing Teeth
- Extra Teeth
- Thumb- and Finger-Sucking Habits
- Crowding and Spacing Issues
- Misaligned Bite
Treating these issues at an early age will prevent future complications and reduce the total length of future orthodontic treatment.
If your child is not ready for treatment, we will just keep monitoring their teeth. There is no fee for these follow-up appointments unless your child needs treatment.
Palatal Expander
An expander is an appliance used to expand (widen) the upper jaw. It is used when the upper jaw is narrow and doesn’t fit properly with the bottom jaw.
The best time to use an expander is in growing children and younger teenagers, when the bones of the upper jaw are not completely fused.
During the expansion process, a gap typically appears between the two front teeth, which concerns some parents. The gap is a good sign, showing that the expansion is actually happening.
After the expansion is complete, the appliance stays in the patient’s mouth for about 6 to 9 months to prevent a relapse. When it is removed, depending on the age of the patient, either a retainer is given or braces are placed.
Separators
Separators a little circular rubber bands placed between the back teeth, usually molars.
Their purpose is to separate the teeth and create a small gap between them. The pressure applied by the spacers can cause some discomfort, depending on each patient.
They usually stay in place for a few days until the gap is large enough to place a band (ring) on the tooth.
They are typically needed before a palatal expander or space maintainer is placed.
Braces
Orthodontic braces are composed of 3 parts:
– Brackets which are glued to the teeth
– Wires
– Ligature, which are colored little rubber bands that tie the wire to the bracket
The braces are used to align your teeth so that we can improve the look and function of your teeth.
Retainers
Custom- made retainers are typically given after any orthodontic treatment, whether it is a phase 1 early treatment or a full orthodontic treatment. Their purpose is to maintain the result obtained.
Palatal Expander
An expander is an appliance used to expand (widen) the upper jaw. It is used when the upper jaw is narrow and doesn’t fit properly with the bottom jaw.
The best time to use an expander is in growing children and younger teenagers, when the bones of the upper jaw are not completely fused.
During the expansion process, a gap typically appears between the two front teeth, which concerns some parents. The gap is a good sign, showing that the expansion is actually happening.
After the expansion is complete, the appliance stays in the patient’s mouth for about 6 to 9 months to prevent a relapse. When it is removed, depending on the age of the patient, either a retainer is given or braces are placed.
Separators
Separators a little circular rubber bands placed between the back teeth, usually molars.
Their purpose is to separate the teeth and create a small gap between them. The pressure applied by the spacers can cause some discomfort, depending on each patient.
They usually stay in place for a few days until the gap is large enough to place a band (ring) on the tooth.
They are typically needed before a palatal expander or space maintainer is placed.
Braces
Orthodontic braces are composed of 3 parts:
– Brackets which are glued to the teeth
– Wires
– Ligature, which are colored little rubber bands that tie the wire to the bracket
The braces are used to align your teeth so that we can improve the look and function of your teeth.
Retainers
Custom- made retainers are typically given after any orthodontic treatment, whether it is a phase 1 early treatment or a full orthodontic treatment. Their purpose is to maintain the result obtained.