Children's Orthodontics Specialist

What is children’s orthodontics?

Children’s orthodontics is a branch of orthodontics dedicated to treating younger patients. Children have different orthodontic needs than adults and teens, and because their jaw and teeth are still growing, Dr. Smith frequently uses different techniques for his younger patients, like interceptive treatments.

Interceptive treatments are procedures administered to stop the development of an orthodontic condition early. By intercepting an orthodontic concern before it has the chance to get worse, Dr. Smith saves your family considerable time and money.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontics suggests scheduling your child’s first orthodontic consultation around their seventh birthday. This is an optimal age for Dr. Smith to begin monitoring their orthodontic development and start preventive treatments, if necessary. 

Freedom Orthodontics is passionate about providing exceptional, early orthodontic care and offers free consultations for children over the age of seven. Call the office or use the online tool to book your child’s free orthodontic consultation today.

What are some common children’s orthodontic conditions?

Some reasons children need orthodontic treatment include:

• Excessive space between teeth
• Crowding
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Open bite
• Thumb sucking
• Holding space after early tooth loss
• Severe overjet (buck teeth)

The most common reason for children’s orthodontics, however, is crossbite, a condition where the upper teeth fit inside of the lower teeth when the jaw is closed. Dr. Smith offers exceptional treatments for crossbites and can properly align your child’s bite.

What are the benefits of starting orthodontic care early?

When you start your child’s orthodontic treatment early, it gives Dr. Smith more flexibility in treatments. With younger patients, the teeth and jawbone are still developing, making it easier for Dr. Smith to effectively guide them into a proper position.

The sooner you begin treatment, the easier it is for Dr. Smith to:

• Reduce overall treatment time
• Decrease the likelihood of extractions
• Save space for teeth that have yet to erupt
• Make more room for teeth that are erupting into a crowded smile
• Create better facial symmetry by manipulating jaw growth

By starting your child’s orthodontic treatment before their teeth have finished erupting, Dr. Smith can detect and address conditions before they’ve settled or become something more complex.

He can align the four front teeth with brackets and wires, and then add retainers to hold their position until your child’s mouth is mature enough for full braces. Taking this early step saves you both time and money and makes your child’s orthodontic experience simpler. 

If you want to learn more about how Dr. Smith can improve your child’s smile, schedule a children’s orthodontics consultation at Freedom Orthodontics today by calling the office or booking online.