Orthodontics for Kids and Teens
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child be screened by an orthodontist at age 7. For children who have significant jaw issues or severe crowding, early treatment is the only way to achieve an optimal final result in the long term. This also minimizes the need for surgical procedures.
Orthodontics for Kids
The need to have a customized treatment plan is essential for everyone. WildSmiles or Invisalign usually starts once the permanent teeth are in place at the age of 12 or 13. This is known as Phase 2 treatment. Dr. Hou understands the need for early treatment and its function within the natural growth of a child. A well-executed Phase 1 will ensure any further treatment like Phase 2 and beyond is reduced and planned for.
Space Maintainers
A child’s permanent teeth are guided into place by the baby teeth. If trauma or tooth decay occurs, the permanent teeth may emerge into the wrong position. The job of a space maintainer is to reserve the space where the permanent teeth are expected to come in and is often used for children who have missing baby teeth.
- Missing teeth from an accident
- Premature extraction from decay
- Baby teeth that have failed to emerge
- Disease
Invisalign
The newest treatment available is now good for children to use. Invisalign uses special plastic aligners to gently move teeth. Invisalign allows the child to continue treatment without changing his or her eating behavior, and can significantly boost his or her self-confidence.
Traditional Braces
This is the original method for tooth alignment. The metal or tooth colored brackets are glued onto the teeth and the wires are placed on the brackets to move teeth.
Overall Treatment
Regardless of the type of treatment, we will work with your children to ensure they have a positive orthodontic experience throughout the treatment period. Maintaining good oral health and wearing aligners for the prescribed time must be discussed and followed as diverting from the treatment plan will prolong the treatment time.
Results of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Some of the most direct results of this type of treatment are:
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
- Creating room for crowded teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to the protruding front teeth
Orthodontics for Teens
You should take your teen to the orthodontist if you notice the following.
- Misaligned jaw and teeth.
- Biting the roof of the mouth or the cheeks
- Improper bite or open bite
- Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Trouble biting or chewing properly
- TMJ problems
There are many factors that determine the amount of time a teen must wear braces including age, type of treatment and individual needs or issues that should be addressed. Typically, this can be anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
Since no two treatments are ever alike, Dr. Hou, known for her patience, will give you a comprehensive and detailed explanation about your treatment. Just call to schedule a consultation now!!!
Invisalign Teen Now Available
One without brackets and wires, Invisalign Teen with blue dot technology is a removable clear aligner that you can take out to eat and brush your teeth. You can easily maintaining a good oral hygiene and strengthening your teeth by wearing Invisalign trays. Check our Invisalign Teen page .
