Pediatric Orthodontics
Pediatric orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting dental and facial irregularities in children. It is a specialized branch of dentistry that addresses issues such as misaligned teeth, overcrowding, overbites, underbites, and jaw discrepancies in young patients. Our orthodontists and team can guide proper tooth alignment and support overall oral health development by starting treatment early during childhood or adolescence when the jaw is still growing.
Orthodontic treatment for kids typically involves using braces or other appliances to gradually shift teeth into their correct positions. These interventions not only improve the aesthetics of a child's smile but also enhance their bite functionality and overall oral health. Regular monitoring by an orthodontist in Atlanta, Snellville, and Decatur, GA, ensures that the treatment progresses effectively and contributes to long-term dental well-being for your child.
Benefits of Pediatric Orthodontics
For many parents, the thought of their child needing orthodontic treatment can be a bit daunting. However, there are numerous benefits to pediatric orthodontics in Atlanta, Snellville, and Decatur, GA, that make it well worth considering.
- One major advantage is improved oral health. By correcting issues such as misaligned teeth or improper jaw growth early on, pediatric orthodontics can help prevent more serious dental problems in the future. .
- Another benefit is enhanced self-esteem and confidence for children. Having a straight and healthy smile can boost a child's self-image and social interactions, leading to increased happiness and overall well-being.
- Additionally, proper alignment of the teeth and jaws can improve speech patterns and chewing function, making it easier for children to communicate clearly and eat comfortably.
Investing in pediatric orthodontics in Atlanta, Snellville, and Decatur, GA, not only improves your child's oral health but also sets them up for a lifetime of confident smiles. Contact us to learn more!
Tips for Caring for Your Child's Braces
When your child gets braces, it's essential to ensure they maintain good oral hygiene. Encourage them to brush their teeth after every meal and floss daily - this helps prevent plaque buildup around the braces. Remind them to use a fluoride toothpaste for added protection against cavities. It's also crucial for your child to avoid certain foods that can damage their braces, such as sticky candies, popcorn, and hard snacks like nuts or pretzels. Cutting up crunchy fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces can make it easier for them to enjoy these healthy options without risking damage to their braces.
Regular visits to the orthodontist in Atlanta, Snellville, and Decatur, GA, are key in ensuring the braces are properly adjusted and any issues are addressed promptly. Encourage your child to follow all instructions given by the orthodontist for optimal results.
By instilling good habits early on, you're setting your child up for success in their orthodontic journey. Stay proactive in helping them care for their braces so they can achieve a beautiful smile with minimal complications along the way.
Pediatric Orthodontics FAQs
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. While orthodontic treatment may not be necessary at this age, early intervention can help identify potential issues and create a treatment plan to address them as the child grows.
Common orthodontic problems in children include crooked or crowded teeth, bite problems such as overbite or underbite, thumb-sucking habits, mouth breathing, and misaligned jaw growth. Orthodontic treatment aims to correct these issues to improve the function and aesthetics of the smile.
Orthodontic treatments for children may include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign®. The best treatment option will depend on the child's specific needs, the severity of their orthodontic issues, and their personal preferences.
The duration of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen treatment method. On average, treatment with braces or aligners may take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, but this can vary from patient to patient.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Encourage your child to brush their teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, floss daily, and avoid sugary and sticky foods that can cause plaque buildup around the braces or aligners. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important to monitor their oral health progress and address any issues that may arise during treatment.
Visit the Silver Smiles Orthodontics office near you at 931 Monroe Dr. NE, Suite C-201, Atlanta, GA 30308, or at 2371 Henry Clower Blvd. Suite A, Snellville, GA 30078; or 1789 Clairmont Rd., Decatur, GA 30033. You can also call (770) 972-6000 or email info@silversmiles.com to learn more about our practice.
Location
- MON - THU8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- FRI8:30 am - 1:00 pm
- SAT - SUNClosed
2371 Henry Clower Blvd. Suite A, Snellville, GA 30078
Phone: (770) 972-6000
Email: info@silversmiles.com
- MON - THU8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- FRI8:30 am - 1:00 pm
- SAT - SUNClosed
- MON - THU8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- FRI8:30 am - 1:00 pm
- SAT - SUNClosed