Orthodontics for Children
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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist as early as age 7. Here is why:
Parents often wonder at what age they should schedule an orthodontics appointment for their children. While many parents are surprised at age 7 being too early, we agree with the American Association of Orthodontists that this early screening is necessary to rule out possible problems that may be much harder to correct later.
Early orthodontics for children helps parents understand if the child’s teeth and jaws are developing normally or if they may need any orthodontic treatment in the future. Orthodontics for children is focused on areas that can be overlooked in a child’s regular visit with family and pediatric dentists. While most kids can start their orthodontic treatment later in life, sometimes an early detection of a problem that is forming can prevent a complicated and costly treatment in the future. Our goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.
Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth even while some baby teeth are still present. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. A check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
Early treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing. Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to:
- Guide jaw growth
- Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- Correct harmful oral habits
- Improve appearance
- Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
- Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips and face
Through early orthodontics for children, you’re giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Problems to Watch for in Growing Children
Crossbite of the front teeth (when top teeth are behind bottom teeth)
Crossbite of the back teeth (when top teeth are to the inside of bottom teeth)
Crowding (when there is not enough space in the jaws for all the teeth to align)
Spacing between teeth (when there is too much space among teeth)
Open bite (front teeth do not meet when back teeth are closed)
Deep bite (when teeth have too much vertical overlap)
Protrusion or excessive overjet (when teeth are sticking out too much)
Underbite (when the lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth)
- Oral habits such as finger/thumb sucking, lip cushioning, nail biting, and tongue thrusting
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Speech difficulties
- Biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth
- Facial imbalance
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
Final treatment decisions should be made among the parent, child’s dentist and orthodontist.
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Our Patients Share Their Stories to Put You at Ease
Dr. Sara is one of the most qualified, experienced orthodontists that I know! She has written multiple research papers and also has a PHD. She is the only one that I feel comfortable to treat my daughter’s teeth.
The customer service and friendly atmosphere at Elara is top notch. From my consultation to the day I got my braces on, everyone has been great and helpful. I wish I could remember everyone’s name, but Kerry and Dr. Abedini are super polite, and will take the time to discuss your treatment plan with you. The office atmosphere is modern and sleek , but still comfortable. Most importantly, their services are affordable 🙏🏾
I absolutely love Dr. Sara!!!!! After being told over and over, refused by other doctors she corrected my under bite WITHOUT surgery. She actually takes what I want into consideration. Did I mention the pricing is amazing! I would recommend her without hesitation. Where has she been all my life?! You wont regret it!!
Elara is the best orthodontics!!! I always thought braces would hurt when they put them on but gladly they didn’t hurt! Dr.Sara is my favorite doctor in there I love her hard work! She did so great , you know what’s really cool that they are doing your braces and your watching avengers.in my opinion that’s really cool. Their staff is really friendly, and I love Shay in the front desk!! A real nice woman! Really good work here guys!!
Luna Pediatric Dentistry is the exclusive sister company of Elara Orthodontics, proudly serving families in the Aliana, Sugar Land, and Richmond, Texas area. We are your one-stop for both dentistry and orthodontics to accommodate every parents busy schedule! Your child’s first dentist is a critical choice that demands a pediatric specialist. By choosing a pediatric dentist, you can ensure your child gets the best care and has the best experience. At Luna Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the unique needs of children, including those with special needs. Always, we strive for positive, enjoyable first impressions. Therefore, we help encourage a lifetime of better oral health and beautiful smiles.
