Most parents are familiar with traditional orthodontic treatment that usually starts when a child hits adolescence. Typically, orthodontics are needed to correct gaps, bite issues or crowding issues. However, in some cases, early orthodontic treatment may be needed.
Early orthodontic treatment is not limited to one type. Each child has varying needs that serve as the basis for determining the most appropriate type of treatment. Generally speaking, there are a few common early orthodontic treatment options that an orthodontist may recommend.
Below is an overview of different types of early orthodontic treatments that are both common and rare. Parents who are preparing their children for treatment should review the following information carefully.
Early orthodontic treatment is most commonly done through fixed dental appliances known as braces. Braces are typically cemented in place on baby teeth to help guide the adult teeth as they erupt. Additionally, braces are a great way to correct underbites, overbites and crossbites, all of which can have very detrimental effects on the oral cavity.
Removable appliances usually refer to dental retainers, which can be used for the same purpose as braces. However, they are less reliable and not as effective in producing the best long-term results. An orthodontist may recommend retainers for children who have very minor problems.
In some rare scenarios, early orthodontic treatment may include tooth extractions, which are often done to make room in the oral cavity for adult teeth. Extractions remove unneeded baby teeth that may be inhibiting the adult teeth from growing in properly. When tooth extraction is recommended, it may be done in conjunction with another early orthodontic treatment option, such as an oral appliance.
Typically, braces and retainers do enough for early orthodontic treatment. However, headgear may also be needed in rare situations. Headgear causes braces to exert more force and pull, which can produce better results for correcting jaw malfunction or uneven bites.
It is important for parents to know that early orthodontic treatment may not be required, but it is often advised and highly recommended. Oftentimes, children who require it often suffer from a problem that could become serious or determinantal later on. For example, when there is a serious bite issue, it could lead to an inability to chew, speak or smile normally. Additionally, a child that sucks their thumb will most likely suffer from protruding teeth, which can result in poor oral health.
Early orthodontic treatment is a great way to get ahead of oral health problems that get in the way of proper eating, speaking and smiling later on in life. When looking for more information on the process and what it entails, it is best to consult directly with an orthodontist. Questions and concerns can be addressed, and an evaluation can be performed in order to determine the most appropriate course of action. Reach out today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.breapediatricdentists.com or call Brea Pediatric Dental Practice and Orthodontics at (714) 782-0215 for an appointment in our Brea office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
It is common for children to face challenges with their oral health, and one of the professionals who can help is a kids orthodontist. While an orthodontist does not focus on cleaning the teeth and filling cavities, they do work on a holistic level to set up the child for oral health success both now…
Maintaining and monitoring a child's oral health from the very start can reduce the risk of future problems, such as multiple cavities. A pediatric dentistry clinic can help parents learn why early visits for infants are so important. From preventing gingivitis to monitoring the way a baby's teeth grow and erupt, regular dental visits for…
Cavity treatment for kids is a chief concern among parents, and for a good reason. Cavities are common in children of all ages. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of the kids ages 6 to 8 have had at least one cavity in a primary tooth. The good news is…
A pediatric root canal is sometimes necessary to prevent the loss of a decayed or damaged baby tooth. Although the goal is to prevent dental cavities and tooth infections, they can still develop, especially in young children (who, on average, are more prone to cavities than teens and adults). It is essential to quickly detect…