Children's Orthodontics

What is children’s orthodontics?

Children’s orthodontics is a dental subspecialty that uses appliances, like braces, retainers, and clear aligners to improve the position of your child’s teeth and jaw. If your child has crooked teeth or a malpositioned bite, they’re more likely to experience tooth decay and gum disease. Children’s orthodontics can reduce the risk of these and other issues.

When should I consider children’s orthodontics?

If you’re concerned about the alignment of your child’s teeth or jaw, make an appointment with the team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics. That’s especially true if your child is age seven or younger and complains of toothaches, jaw pain, or other oral issues.

After an oral exam and a series of oral X-rays, your child’s orthodontist can develop a treatment plan that aligns with their needs.

What types of issues can children’s orthodontics treat?

The team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics uses children’s orthodontics to treat a wide range of issues, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowding
• Overlapping teeth
• A misaligned jaw

Your child might also benefit from orthodontics if they have a bite abnormality, like crossbite, overbite, or underbite.

What are the types of children’s orthodontics?

The team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics offers several types of children’s  orthodontics, including:

Traditional braces

Traditional braces feature brackets, metal archwires, and rubber bands. Your child’s orthodontist bonds the brackets to the front of their teeth. The brackets and archwires put mild pressure on your child’s teeth and jaw, gradually improving their alignment and position.

InvisalignFirst® 

If your child doesn’t want to wear metal braces, consider Invisalign®. Invisalign uses a series of removable plastic aligners to straighten your child’s teeth. Invisalign aligners are easy to clean and care for. What’s more, since they’re removable, your child can continue eating their favorite snacks, including nuts, seeds, and pretzels.

Is children’s orthodontics painful?

Children’s orthodontics is safe and usually well-tolerated. During the first few weeks of treatment, it’s normal to experience some discomfort or mild soreness. Your child can take anti-inflammatory medication or apply a bag of ice to their cheek. If your child has metal braces, the team can give them wax to protect their lips and gums from cuts.

To learn more about children’s orthodontics, request a consultation at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.