Orthodontics for Kids

The Adventure Club

A complimentary guidance program to evaluate your child's orthodontic needs at or before the age of 7.

pediatric dentistry for top and bottom teeth

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a “wellness check” be done at the age of 7. This wellness check is done by our orthodontists and the information provided is different than a typical dental visit. This is a guidance program that monitors dental crowding/tooth eruption, jaw growth and airway development.

This evaluation is done FREE of charge at Adventure Orthodontics and its purpose is to provide parents/guardians with information on whether treatment is necessary and at what age treatment is recommended. In certain instances, Drs. McCord and McCoy may recommend early treatment or what is often called “Phase I treatment.”

The main goal of early treatment is to correct an orthodontic issue that, if left untreated, could result in future problems like crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, jaw problems, issues with your child’s gums and other orthodontic problems that may require more invasive procedures. Phase I treatment is not typically done for cosmetic reasons.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends early treatment may be needed in certain instances to:

  • Allow more space for crowded teeth, thus preventing the need for the extraction of child’s permanent teeth later in life
  • Regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches
  • Correct thumb-sucking and help improve minor speech problems
  • Correct and guide the growth of the jaw

Our dental team encourages you to bring your child for an orthodontic exam at or before the age of 7, especially if you notice issues such as crowding or misalignment in the front teeth, thumb or finger sucking, mouth breathing, or the early or late loss of teeth.

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FAQ

A child’s bones are still growing, making them more responsive to treatment. In addition, early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing later on. Problems with baby a baby tooth /teeth can indicate more serious problems in the future, which your orthodontist can find solutions to early on.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by the age of seven. However, you don’t need to wait for a referral from your dentist. You can schedule an appointment with an orthodontist at any time.

The orthodontist will ask about your child’s medical and dental history and conduct a thorough examination of your child’s teeth, mouth, jaw and face. Once the examination is complete, the orthodontist will discuss the treatment options that are best for your child.

Braces are the most common type of treatment for children. However, there are other options available, such as clear aligners or retainers. The orthodontist will discuss the best option for your child based on the severity of the misalignment.

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment. In most cases, children will need to wear braces for about two years. However, some children may need to wear them for a shorter or longer period of time.

There are a few things you can do to help your child adjust to wearing braces. First, make sure that your child brushes and flosses their teeth regularly. This will help prevent cavities and gum disease. Second, encourage your child to eat healthy foods. Eating a balanced diet will help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Finally, be supportive of your child throughout the orthodontic treatment process.

Orthodontic treatment can improve your child’s smile, self-esteem and overall oral health. Additionally, it can help your child bite and chew food more effectively.

The three most common types of braces are metal, ceramic and clear plastic. Metal braces are the most visible, but they are also the most durable. Ceramic braces are less visible than metal braces, but they may not be as strong. Clear plastic braces are the least visible option, but they may not be suitable for all patients.

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed two or three years of additional training in orthodontics. Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. When you are taking your child to an orthodontist, it is different from your typical services from a pediatric dentist — pediatric dentists focus more on issues like dental decay.

Your child will need to see the orthodontist every four to eight weeks so he or she can check their progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Most dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of braces. However, some plans may offer a discount if you see an in-network orthodontist.