It’s official: your son needs braces. His teeth are crooked, and while he doesn’t seem to care, you know something needs to be done. This rite of passage comes for many children, but at what age? It seems that kids of all ages are sporting braces in Allen, so how do you know when it’s the appropriate time for your child? Let us explain.
As an adult, you may look back and think about the time you had to wear braces to fix your crooked teeth. The metal brackets, wires, and of course, the colored bands made for a great addition to your school pictures, right? Although your time with braces has come and gone, it’s quickly approaching for your child. But did you know that braces don’t just fix crooked teeth? They can help address other oral-related issues, too!
In addition to the problems braces can fix, there are also different types of orthodontic treatments available, such as:
By the time your child reaches the age of 7, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends they have their first orthodontic checkup. Now, that doesn’t mean they’ll get braces during that visit, but it will allow an orthodontist in Allen to evaluate your child’s teeth to determine if early intervention is beneficial. For children, there is a two-phase orthodontic approach that is beneficial:
When your child still has most of their primary teeth, their orthodontist will prescribe certain appliances (space maintainers or palate expanders) to help put their oral development back on track. The goals of this phase include such things as:
Traditional braces will be placed once your child’s permanent (adult) teeth are in place. The goals of this phase include:
We know you just want what is best for your child, and if that means braces, you are ready to help them through the process. However, it’s important that you and your child’s orthodontist discuss when it is appropriate to address any orthodontic-related issues or concerns. By going to a trusted orthodontist and allowing the treatment to be a gradual process, your child can expect a successful treatment that results in a longer-lasting smile.
About the Practice
When it comes to caring for yours and your children’s teeth, OPD Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is ready to help! Drs. Michael and Russell Choy are brothers who studied separate dental specialties before joining forces and opening their own practice together. Whether you need orthodontic treatment for yourself, or if your child needs a preventative checkup, we provide comprehensive care in one convenient location. To learn more, contact us at (972) 646-7774.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about straightening teeth – it can improve your child’s developing bite, prevent dangerous overcrowding of teeth, fix breathing and swallowing problems, help them speak more clearly, and improve their self-confidence as well! Dr. Michael offers a wide variety of services that are a great fit for every age group with a personalized touch.
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It’s never too early to get children started on the right path towards a healthy, happy smile that lasts for life. Dr. Russell has plenty of experience with treating infants, toddlers, school-aged children, teenagers, and everyone who falls somewhere in-between. Better yet, his pediatric care approach will grow with patients over time in order to keep them feeling at ease.
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