Braces for Kids
& Orthodontics for Kids
Early Orthodontic Treatment
When is the best age to get braces?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
We’re proud to be an experienced children’s orthodontist near you!
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for your child's first orthodontic consultation?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships.
For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
How do I know if my child needs braces or Invisalign?
An early assessment of your child’s growth gives you the peace of mind that your child is thriving.
Early Orthodontic Treatment Pros and Cons
Luckily, proper oral hygiene is necessary with or without braces, so early orthodontic treatment doesn’t present any considerable cons.It is our priority to educate our patients as much as possible! We will explain everything you need to know about early orthodontic treatment when you schedule your child’s consultation with us.
Pros
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Cons
There aren’t many cons to early orthodontic treatment, but parents do have to understand that early orthodontic treatment is a commitment. Children must commit to maintaining proper oral hygiene, and parents must commit to ensuring that their children are brushing and flossing their teeth regularly.
What are the advantages of braces for kids?
Some of the most direct results of braces for kids include:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with children's braces
Are braces for kids necessary?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile. Orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic treatment is best separated into two phases, designed to work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones.
What is Phase 1 treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 7 and 10 and is aimed to prepare the mouth for permanent teeth to emerge in a healthy alignment with a sufficient amount of space.
During this phase, your child may be treated with a palatal expander appliance to widen the upper jaw and create enough room for permanent teeth to grow.
What is Phase 2 treatment?
This phase generally begins in the early teen years, when all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 2 treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws to create a harmonious facial appearance. During this phase, a full treatment of braces or Invisalign is often completed.
Every child develops at a different rate, and your child’s treatment plan will be 100% personalized to his or her needs. At your first visit, we’ll help you make the right choice for your little one!
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.
Whether your child gets braces at age 8, 9 or 10, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan and explain everything you and your child need to know for a successful treatment experience.
Looking for a children's orthodontist?
If you’ve recently searched for “kids braces near me”, we’ve got you covered! Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at any of our locations in West Spartanburg, East Spartanburg, Gaffney, Duncan, or Union. We believe patient education is the foundation to a successful treatment! We will always take the time to explain your treatment to you, throughout every phase.
If you haven’t received your complimentary exam yet, we encourage you to request yours today! Your first visit to our office is no-obligation, no-risk, and no-commitment. We want you to experience the Nth Degree in orthodontic care, without any financial risk.
