Kids
We care BIG time about tiny teeth. There are lots of reasons why your child might need early orthodontic treatment. Read on to find out more.
Children’s Orthodontic Treatment
At OX Orthodontix, we specialize in the orthodontic evaluation and treatment of children, and we believe that interceptive treatment can set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and limit the need or extent of treatment in the future.
OX Orthodontix was among the first children’s orthodontists to use Invisalign for early phase treatment. It’s part of the reason why we have been recognized as a top 1% provider. Additionally, as orthodontic specalists we are experts in using orthodontic expanders and braces when they are needed.
Having used Invisalign in this way for over five years, along with product improvements, has allowed our orthodontists to treat an increasing number of pediatric patients. Our mission is to help our patients achieve a beautiful smile for the long term – and sometimes, that means starting treatment early.
Early Phase Early Results
Keep in mind that while we recommend an orthodontic evaluation at this early stage, we may not actually elect to start treatment right away. More often, our orthodontists will decide to wait and monitor your child’s growth for the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment. In some cases though, we do decide that it’s best to start treatment early.
Does My Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?
There are orthodontic and dental problems that can be avoided or have their severity reduced with an early phase of orthodontic treatment. Many of these issues can be found with orthodontic exams and x-rays which let us see the teeth and how they relate in the mouth but also how they relate to the developing facial skeleton. A healthy bite and smile is a lot more than just how straight the teeth are!
Common Orthodontic Problems In Children
You may feel like your child’s teeth and jaws may not look quite right. Or your dentist thinks you should take your child for an orthodontic exam. Whatever the reason, there are several key things we will look for.
Deep Bite
The lower teeth are bitting close to, or on, the palate
Overbite
Upper front teeth protrude
Underbite
Lower front teeth protrude
Crossbites
Misalignment of the upper and lower teeth
Crowding
Upper and/or lower teeth are crowded
Narrow Jaws
Upper and/or lower arches too narrow
Facial Asymmetries
Difference in size of the left and right hemifaces
Have more questions about Orthodontics for kids?
Book a free consultation with the OX team today to determine if your child is a good candidate for early orthodontic treatment. They’ll be in good hands with the team at OX Orthodontix.
Following the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), we recommend parents bring their children to visit an orthodontist for their first appointment by age 7. At this age, the back bite is established, allowing us to evaluate both front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. This lets our orthodontists spot any current orthodontic problems or problems that may develop down the road.