Children’s OrthodonticsCleburne, TX

Why Children’s Orthodontics

There are many reasons a child may need orthodontic treatment. While most of these problems are inherited, some are also acquired. For example, the following may lead to malocclusion or issues with teeth spacing:

• Abnormal swallowing
• Accidents
• Dental disease
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Mouth breathing
• Poor dental hygiene
• Poor nutrition
• Thumb or finger sucking

Some children also have inherited orthodontic problems that are further complicated by acquired issues. Common issues among children who still have primary teeth (also known as baby teeth) include underbites, crossbites, crowded teeth, excessively spaced teeth, extra or missing teeth, and teeth that meet abnormally or not at all. Furthermore, despite what many parents may think, it is highly unlikely for children’s teeth to straighten out as they grow.

Preparing for Children’s Orthodontic Treatment

A pediatric orthodontist can help correct a child’s tooth alignment and jaw position. In other words, they can help the jaws and teeth line up correctly, allowing them to function to the best of their ability. After orthodontic treatment, children are better able to bite, chew, and speak clearly. They can also experience increased self-confidence, and their teeth are less vulnerable to decay, gum disease, and injury.

The overall goal of early intervention is to prevent any future problems and to facilitate teeth eruption. Since each child has unique needs, there is no one minimum age to receive orthodontic treatment. To personalize each patient’s treatment, Dr. Tennison will record their jaw growth using models, X-rays, and photographs.

When to Begin Children’s Orthodontic Treatment

The preparation stage is sometimes (but not always) known as “phase one.” This stage aims to help the patient’s jaws develop correctly. This allows them to accommodate all the permanent teeth, improve the upper and lower jaws’ alignment, and more.

Often, children with more complicated cases may even need to start treatment before their first teeth erupt. Though “phase two” of children’s orthodontic treatment typically does not begin until all the permanent teeth have erupted, some children may benefit from getting braces before losing all their baby teeth. 

What Happens During Children’s Orthodontic Treatment

To begin treatment, Dr. Tennison will use any information collected during phase one to determine which appliances will be necessary for treatment and estimate how long the patient’s treatment will take. He will also monitor the patient’s teeth eruption to perform any necessary extractions.

In most cases, he will then place braces on both the upper and lower teeth. For most patients, treatment takes 18 to 36 months to complete. However, as mentioned earlier, treatment time varies on a case-by-case basis. Treatment may involve temporary anchorage devices (TADs), rubber bands, and headgear. Children will typically need to wear retainers after completing treatment to preserve their results.

When to Wait for Children’s Orthodontic Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by no later than age seven. They specify this age because the bones are still typically developing and since they are in a transitional period. The first permanent molars appear around age six, and baby teeth begin getting replaced by permanent teeth.

This is the prime time for any abnormalities to occur. In such cases, early intervention is key to preventing any problems from worsening. However, the vast majority of children will not experience such issues. Typically, only children with crossbites, underbites, and overjets will require early intervention (or two-phase treatment). Other children may benefit from waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted before receiving orthodontic treatment.

Call Us Today

Pediatric orthodontics can leave your child with a smile they will be proud of for the rest of their life. Our team at Tennison Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 817-522-7358 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child need to change their diet once they get braces?

Yes. With traditional braces, your child will need to avoid foods that are excessively crunchy, hard, or sticky. These foods may break or get stuck between your child’s brackets. We can go over the details of foods to avoid when wearing braces during the appointment.

Will my child still need to see the dentist while they have braces?

Yes. Keeping up with regular dental appointments is arguably even more critical for children with braces. Traditional braces can make it more difficult for them to keep up their oral hygiene routine. In conjunction with your child’s dentist, we can help you keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy throughout their entire treatment.

Will braces hurt my child?

No. Though it is not uncommon for children to feel a bit of discomfort with braces, this sensation is typically more likened to a sense of pressure than pain. This discomfort is usually most present right after placing the braces on the teeth or getting braces tightened, and it lessens over time.

Will my child need to have any teeth extracted?

Extraction is typically only necessary for children with severely crowded or impacted teeth. However, early intervention may circumvent the need for extraction. In general, we will avoid tooth extraction whenever possible.

Why is it essential to treat malocclusion?

Any type of malocclusion can lead to issues with eating, speaking, and chewing. Left untreated, they may all cause irreparable damage to the teeth, jaw pain, and TMJ disorder. Overall, it is more difficult for patients with malocclusions to care for their teeth. Malocclusion can also negatively affect facial appearance, which impacts one’s self-esteem. Dr. Tennison can move both the teeth and even the jaws into the correct position. Call us today to make an appointment.