Early Treatment With Braces For Kids
Waterford, Norwich, & Groton, CT
When Should My Child First See An Orthodontist?
Since it is easier to treat teeth and jaws that are still growing, we recommend that you bring your child to the dentist as early as age seven. By this age, they should have some of their permanent teeth, and Dr. O’Leary and Dr. Hack can check to see if there are any potential problems developing. When you bring your child in for treatment early, we can stop small orthodontic problems from getting worse and becoming more serious down the road.
Early treatment has many benefits, but it may not always be best for your child to get braces right away. Our team is committed to being honest and giving good care, and we will only suggest that your child start treatment if we think it will help their oral health and appearance in the long run. Even if they don’t get braces right away, we may keep in our observation program to keep an eye on their smile as they develop.
What To Expect With Braces For Kids
During the first appointment with your child, Drs. O’Leary and Hack will look at all parts of their oral health. To find possible problems, it is important to look at the teeth, gums, jawbones, and surrounding muscles. Modern diagnostic x-rays and scans will be used to see how the growth is changing and figure out what the best next step is.
If your child needs orthodontic treatment, you will be given a personalized plan that tells you everything you need to know about the appliances, how long the treatment will take, and how much it will cost. Our team will work with you to determine the best and most practical choices for you and your child.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the most common treatment for kids with crooked teeth is braces. There are many different types of braces, and the one that will work best for your child will depend on their specific needs. When the braces are first put on, your child may experience some soreness and discomfort, but this will subside in a few days as their teeth and mouth begin to adjust. Once the braces are on, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to protect their teeth from staining and plaque buildup.
Your child will also need to make regular appointments with Drs. O’Leary and Hack to have the braces adjusted and checked. Most kids wear braces for around one to two years, but the exact length of time depends on the issues needing correction.
Benefits Of Early Treatment
Even though every child is different, early treatment can help improve their appearance, function, and self-esteem. It can also lower their risk of tooth decay and gum disease and greatly improve their oral health. Early treatment may also save space in the mouth for permanent teeth and make it less likely that the child will have more dental problems in the future.
We want to make a treatment plan for your child that is as unique as they are. We know that kids have different orthodontic needs and goals, and they need an appliance to help them get a beautiful smile that will last. OASECT is proud to offer different types of orthodontic treatment so that you and your child never have to give up what they want to get what they need.
We try to make your child’s visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible. During your consultation, we’ll explain your options and help you make the right choices for and with your child.
