Kids Orthodontics

Kids orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and skeletal irregularities in children and adolescents. It is essential to address orthodontic issues early in a child's developmental years, when their jaws and facial bones are growing and, therefore, more receptive to intervention. By correcting problems such as malocclusions, crowding, and jaw misalignments during childhood, an orthodontist in Zionsville, IN, improves dental alignment and bite function, promotes proper facial development, and prevents more severe orthodontic problems from arising later in life. Early intervention can lead to better long-term outcomes, reduced treatment time, and minimize the need for extensive orthodontic procedures in the future, ultimately contributing to children's overall oral health and well-being as they grow into adulthood. 

Does Your Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to 9. This early visit is to monitor the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. While not every child will need orthodontic treatment at this age, early intervention can be beneficial for addressing problems before they become more serious. It’s important to understand that the goal of an early evaluation is not necessarily to start treatment immediately, but to spot potential issues early on.

Signs that your child may need early orthodontic treatment include difficulty chewing or biting, persistent thumb sucking, or misalignment of the teeth, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Early treatment can help correct these issues, prevent future complications, and ensure a healthier smile as your child grows. Regular check-ups with an orthodontist are essential for monitoring progress and making adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.

Common Orthodontic Problems in Children 

Malocclusions 

Malocclusions, or misalignments of teeth and jaws, are among children's most common orthodontic problems. These can manifest in several forms, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Overbites occur when the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth, while underbites occur when the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth. Crossbites involve teeth that are misaligned in a sideways or rotated position, and open bites occur when the upper and lower teeth do not make contact when biting down. Malocclusions can lead to difficulties with chewing, speaking, and proper oral hygiene, as well as potential jaw pain and discomfort. 

Crowding and Spacing 

Crowding and spacing issues are also common orthodontic problems in children. Crowding occurs when there isn't enough space in the dental arch for all permanent teeth to erupt correctly. This can result in teeth that overlap, twist, or become impacted, leading to aesthetic concerns and an increased risk of dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. On the other hand, spacing issues involve gaps or spaces between teeth, which may result from missing teeth, undersized teeth, or abnormal tooth shape. While minor spacing may not pose significant health risks, larger gaps can affect dental aesthetics and function, leading to self-esteem issues and potential speech difficulties. 

Dental Impactions 

Dental impactions occur when a tooth fails to emerge fully through the gums, becoming trapped or "impacted" beneath the surface. This commonly occurs with the wisdom teeth (third molars) but can also affect other teeth. If left untreated, impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Orthodontic treatment may be necessary to create space and facilitate the eruption of impacted teeth into their proper position. 

Thumb Sucking and Tongue Thrusting 

Habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and prolonged pacifier use can exert pressure on the teeth and jaws, leading to orthodontic problems over time. Thumb sucking, in particular, can cause the front teeth to protrude forward or create an open bite. Early intervention to address these habits can help prevent malocclusions and other dental issues from developing. 

Treatment Options in Orthodontics 

Traditional Braces 

Traditional braces have been a mainstay in orthodontic treatment for decades, and they continue to be a highly effective option for correcting dental misalignments and bite problems. This treatment involves attaching metal or ceramic brackets to the teeth and connecting them with wires and elastic bands. By applying gentle pressure over time, braces gradually move the teeth into proper positions. Traditional braces are versatile, suitable for patients of all ages, and can address even the most complex orthodontic issues. 

Clear Aligner Systems 

Clear aligner systems, such as Invisalign and ClearCorrect, offer a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. These systems utilize a series of clear, removable aligners custom-designed to shift the teeth into alignment gradually. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series, with regular check-ups with the orthodontist to monitor progress. Clear aligners are popular among adults and older teenagers who desire a more discreet orthodontic treatment. 

Lingual Braces 

Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces but with one key difference: instead of being attached to the front of the teeth, the brackets and wires are placed on the back (lingual) surfaces, making them virtually invisible from the outside. Lingual braces offer the benefits of traditional braces while providing a more aesthetically pleasing option for patients who wish to maintain a natural smile appearance during treatment. However, lingual braces may require a longer adjustment period and can be more challenging to clean than traditional braces. Contact us today!

Self-Ligating Braces 

Self-ligating braces are a modern variation of traditional braces that use specialized brackets with built-in clips or doors to hold the archwire in place, eliminating the need for elastic ligatures. This design allows for smoother, more efficient tooth movement and may result in shorter treatment times than traditional braces. Self-ligating braces also require fewer adjustments and may be associated with less discomfort during treatment. 

The Benefits of Visiting Kids Orthodontics 

• Kids orthodontics allows for early detection and intervention of orthodontic issues, preventing more severe problems from developing later in life. 
• By addressing orthodontic issues during childhood, kids orthodontics promotes proper dental and facial development, ensuring optimal oral health and function. 
• Correcting orthodontic problems can boost a child's self-confidence and self-esteem, enhancing their social interactions and overall well-being. 
• Kids' orthodontics focuses on preventive care, helping to prevent dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw abnormalities. 
• Orthodontic treatment plans are tailored to each child's unique needs and preferences, ensuring optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction. 
• Investing in kids orthodontics can provide lifelong benefits, including a healthy, beautiful smile and improved oral health for years to come. 

If you're considering orthodontic treatment for your child, visit Village Orthodontics at 95 E Oak St STE B, Zionsville, IN 46077, or 1911 N Lebanon St, Lebanon, IN 46052, explore personalized treatment options tailored to your child's unique needs and goals. You can schedule an appointment online or call us at (317) 873-6927.