What to Expect with Children’s Orthodontics in Creve Coeur MO

If your child is in elementary school, you may be thinking it is too soon to think about braces. However, the American Dental Association recommends that children visit the orthodontist between ages 7 and 9. This allows your dentist to help prevent or correct bite or misalignment issues early. By visiting a children’s orthodontist near you, you can discover what to expect if your child needs orthodontic treatment and its benefits.

Every Children’s Orthodontic Plan is Unique

Most orthodontists will customize the treatment plan for each of their patients. Depending on the problem being addressed, your child may need to wear braces for 1 to 3 years. After the treatment, a retainer is worn to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original position. Although your child may experience a little discomfort during treatment, modern braces are more comfortable and aesthetic, so there’s virtually no impact on social life.

Other orthodontic appliances that are commonly recommended include space maintainers and a palatal expander. Space maintainers can be used to hold that space until the adult tooth erupts. Palatal expanders reduce crowding by expanding the upper dental arch to allow enough space for the permanent teeth to grow and decrease airway resistance allowing for easier breathing and improved quality of life.

Headgear or rubber bands (elastics) may be necessary to exert external force to move the teeth and jaws into the correct position. The headgear is removable and is only attached to the braces from the back of the head at night.

Schedule Your Child’s Consultation

If any problems are detected, your orthodontist will commence early treatment where possible to prevent further problems from developing. In some cases, very little additional treatment may be needed when your child is older to complete the teeth/jaw alignment process. Visit your orthodontist in Creve Coeur MO today for early evaluation and treatment.