Ortho for Kids / Teens

We certainly agree with the American Association of Orthodontists, which encourages children around the age of 7 to have their first orthodontic exam.  This early exam or consultation allows us to identify any potential problems that may be occurring.  If no major problems are identified, but your child is a potential orthodontic candidate, we will place the child on six-month recall visits.  Your child will continue six-month recall visits until he or she can truly benefit from orthodontic therapy.

We must understand that “starting early” does not necessary mean “finishing early.”  By starting early, we are able to take advantage of growth and create space for all permanent teeth to come in, which allows for more friendly treatment plans.  These treatment plans increase the percentages of us treating your child non-extraction (not taking out permanent teeth) and eliminating the potential risk of possible oral surgery procedures.  It also enables us to think conservatively and treat conservatively while evaluating all options for the best possible result.

Age, gender and physical maturity are all very important in evaluating the right time to start treatment.  Girls typically mature earlier in life for a shorter period of time.  Boys, on the other hand, typically mature later in life for a longer period of time.  Because of this developmental difference, it is more likely that girls will start at a slightly earlier age than boys.

Your child’s treatment could start early (Phase I Treatment) and take advantage of growth and developmental years or could start later during their adolescent years (Comprehensive Treatment) when growth still exists and most of the permanent teeth are in place.

If we make a collective decision to start early, your child’s treatment will typically consist of partial braces and a modified palatal expander.  This combination helps to create the space we need for the erupting permanent teeth. 

If treatment is started later, your child will typically have a full set of braces.  We may also have to evaluate using an expansion appliance and/or a Herbst appliance depending on your child’s orthodontic problems.  In either case, Dr. Cooper will be able to go into more detail during your consultation appointment to help you make the best decision for your child.

Nonetheless, our overall treatment goal for your child is to achieve facial balance and harmony between the teeth and supporting structures for a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles.

Please click here for more information on the Ortho For Kids.

Please click here for more information on the Herbst appliances.