When your children first show signs of misalignment, you should bring them in to see their Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist. Starting treatment in childhood can offer kids a number of oral health benefits. In today’s blog, we’re going to look at the advantages of starting treatment early with phased orthodontics.
The Causes of Misalignment (and Potential Complications)
Misalignment may develop as a result of thumb sucking or tongue thrusting in toddler and early childhood years. Losing baby teeth prematurely to tooth decay could impact how the permanent teeth erupt. Other times, issues with the size of the jaw or balance of the mouth could lead to the onset of misalignment. Whatever the cause, know that unless treated, poor alignment could lead to oral health problems for your child. For many, these crowded and overlapping teeth could provide places for food particles to become trapped, even brushing and flossing may not be able to remove them. Once bacteria break down these particles, the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis increases. Others may be more likely to suffer from TMJ disorder and bruxism, as misalignment places pressure on the jaw joints. Finally, your child may simply feel embarrassed about the appearance of his or her smile!
Interceptive Treatment Options
Since in childhood the mouth is still growing and developing, this is a great chance to begin guiding the alignment and growth of the teeth and the jawbone with interceptive orthodontics, also known as phased orthodontics. These consist of aligners, retainers, and teeth spacers, all designed to help limit the severity of misalignment as your child grows. Each option we use will be designed based on detailed digital impressions we take of the smile, which allow us to create treatment options with precision and accuracy.
Later Treatment Options
Once your child enters the teen years, their smile is almost completely developed. Which means now is the time to start the final phase of their treatment with braces or Invisalign® aligners. These options will reposition the teeth to correct misalignment, finishing the job started with our phased options. If your child received treatment in their early years, the amount of time needed to wear braces or aligners is often shorter than if they never received treatment. If you have any questions about helping kids enjoy optimal oral health and finding the best solution to their misalignment, then please contact our team today.
We Offer Orthodontic Treatment for Kids
For children with misalignment and bite imbalance, we have unique and comfortable treatment options. To schedule your consultation and learn more about childhood braces and orthodontics, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.
