Orthodontics for Children | Elara Orthodontics Richmond, TX

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Orthodontics for Children

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)

Other problems with development of the teeth, jaws and oral functions

  • 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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  • I couldn’t thank Dr. Hourfar for being the most patient Dentist I have met in my life. His attention to detail and his calm demeanor has made him a favorite Dentist in my family. He has just completed the treatement plan for my 16 yr old son and I cannot be more pleased at the outcome. My sons teeth are 100% better than what they were.We have out daughter also seeing him and she loves going for her visits . I can tell you if you have kids who need Braces take them to Dr. Hourfar. I thank Dr. Hourfar and his dental staff for their diligent and hard work and for providing a service which is above and beyond that i have experienced.

    Nasser R.

    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 badass 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!!

    Leyla C.
  • Dr. Ali Hourfar is one of the most caring individuals alive. He’s not just a great person, he is a fantastic orthodontist. I would take my own children to him in a heartbeat. I worked closely with him for years and he treated me…an orthodontist. So if you want exceptional treatment, go see the orthodontist’s orthodontist!

    Chuck C.

    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!!

    Jonesha H.
  • The staff is friendly and professional . Very knowledgeable, and they offer affordable payment plans , the place is clean. The process is fast and they make sure you are comfortable before starting anything. I will be getting my braces here at Elara Orthodontist and I feel that I will be in good hands. Can’t wait to see the final results in two years . Highly recommend.

    Maryury Santos

    Dr Hourfar did an amazing job on my smile! I spent my whole life ashamed of my crooked teeth but never again! Not to mention my TMJ issues are completely gone!!! Thanks to him I can smile big! He is very good at what he does and he is funny too. If he can fix my crazy crooked snaggle toothed grin he can fix yours too! And now he’s working on my daughter. In less than a year her smile is already nearly perfect! I highly recommend!! Thank you Dr Hourfar. You’re my angel and my life will never be the same.

    Jessica F.

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.

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