best orthodontic

Children’s 

Orthodontist Austin TX

Boy in blue shirt smiling, holds a gaming controller against his chin, with a blue background.
A child in a dental chair with a dentist examining their teeth, wearing blue gloves.

Give Your Child a
 Lifetime of Smiles

Your child needs properly aligned teeth and jaws for a healthy, lasting smile. While the right age for orthodontic treatment varies, Dr. Jhon Dhoe and the American Association of Orthodontists recommend a first visit around age seven.

What is Early Treatment?

Early treatment at Best Orthodontics may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter, simpler, and less expensive. In some cases, Dr. John Dhoe will be able to achieve results that would be much more difficult to achieve if the face and jaws finish growing.

When is the Best Time for Treatment?

While the age that kids get braces may vary, orthodontic treatment in Northwest Austin mainly starts between the ages of 9 and 14, because some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they’re treated early.

Role of a Children’s Orthodontist

A children’s orthodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating dental issues in children from infancy through adolescence. Unlike pediatric dentists who handle general dental care, orthodontists focus on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, monitoring development, and using braces, retainers, or other devices to ensure proper alignment.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Early orthodontic treatment, or interceptive orthodontics, addresses dental issues at an early stage to prevent serious problems later. Benefits include:

A child sits in a dental chair while a dentist, wearing gloves, cleans their teeth with a dental tool.

Preventing severe
dental issues

A healthy, bright smile can make you feel good about yourself and make a positive impression on others.

Improving appearance
and confidence

Early treatment saves time, money, and discomfort.

Enhancing oral health

Aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Benefits of Children’s
Orthodontic Treatment

Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health and well-being. It’s not just about having a beautiful smile, but also about maintaining a healthy mouth that’s free from diseases and other issues. This guide will provide you with valuable information on how to improve your oral health and hygiene.

Improved Oral Health and Hygiene

Orthodontic care supports overall health by promoting a healthy, disease-free mouth. Key practices include regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Enhanced Speech Development

Properly aligned teeth improve pronunciation and articulation. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and a balanced diet all contribute to better speech development.

Prevention of Future Dental Issues

Good oral care helps prevent problems like cavities and gum disease. Preventive measures include brushing twice daily, flossing, reducing sugary foods, and regular dental cleanings.

Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem

A healthy, bright smile enhances confidence and makes a positive impression. Maintaining this involves proper oral hygiene, routine dental visits, and a nutritious diet.

Understanding Children’s 

Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic appliances are tools that orthodontists use to help correct problems with teeth and jaws. They come in various types, each designed to address specific issues. Here are some of the most commonly used orthodontic appliances:

Braces

Braces feature brackets on each tooth connected by an archwire.

Aligners

These are clear, plastic trays that fit over the teeth.

Retainers

These are used after braces or aligners to keep the teeth in their new position.

Space maintainers

These are used when a child loses a baby tooth prematurely. 

Importance of Early Evaluation

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early detection of issues like overcrowding or bite problems can simplify treatment and prevent future complications.

Child smiling in dental chair with dentist's hands and tools around mouth.

Treatment Process

Consultation

Includes examination, X-rays, and impressions.

Appliance Placement

Orthodontic devices are fitted based on the treatment plan.

Follow-ups

Regular adjustments to monitor and ensure progress.

Retention

A retainer is often used after treatment to maintain results.

A dentist and a woman smile at a girl sitting in a dental chair, who is holding a tablet.

Appointment Duration and Frequency

The duration and frequency of orthodontic appointments vary depending on the type of appliance used and the severity of the dental issue. Typically, braces need to be adjusted every four to six weeks, while aligners are usually changed every two weeks. Appointments generally last between 30 to 60 minutes. The total treatment time can range from six months to three years or more, depending on the individual case.

Common Orthodontic
Issues in Children

Here are some frequent orthodontic concerns addressed at Paige Orthodontics:
Child with dark hair and braided pigtails smiles, showing a gap where a tooth is missing, in a brightly lit room.

Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, and Spacing Problems

Overbite: Upper teeth overlap with the lower teeth excessively, causing speech or chewing problems.
Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth, leading to chewing problems and jaw pain.
Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth, leading to uneven wear, gum disease, and bone loss.
Spacing Problems: Gaps or overcrowding can hinder chewing, speech, and oral hygiene.

Crooked or Misaligned Teeth

Caused by genetics, thumb sucking, or accidents. Misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty in cleaning, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Crowding or

Spacing Issues

Crowding occurs when there is insufficient space for teeth, making cleaning difficult and increasing the risk of tooth decay. Spacing issues can cause food to get stuck between teeth, also contributing to decay.

Thumb Sucking and Other Oral Habits

While common in young children, prolonged thumb sucking can cause misalignment of teeth and changes to the roof of the mouth.

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children

Orthodontic appliances are tools used by dental professionals to correct alignment and spacing issues in the teeth and jaw. They come in various forms, each designed to address specific dental problems. In this guide, we will delve into the details of four common types of orthodontic appliances: traditional braces, clear aligners, functional appliances, and retainers.
Best Orthodontics

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces have been a staple in orthodontics for many years and remain the most prevalent type of orthodontic device.

Components

Brackets, archwires, and ligature elastics.

Benefits

Effective for severe misalignments, durable, and suitable for a wide range of dental issues.

A smiling person with glasses holds a clear dental retainer in their hands.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners represent a contemporary alternative to traditional braces.

How They Work

Use consistent pressure to gradually move teeth, with new aligners replaced every two weeks.

Advantages

Discreet, removable for eating and cleaning, and convenient for oral hygiene.

Functional Appliances

Functional appliances are designed to address issues related to jaw growth. They are typically suggested for children and adolescents.

Types:

Twin Block, Bionator, and Herbst appliances.

Benefits:

Can improve jaw function and facial aesthetics, preventing future dental problems.

Young patient holding a removable orthodontic appliance during their bite correction treatment

Retainers

Retainers are essential to help prevent any shifting back to original alignments.

Types:

Removable (can be taken out for cleaning) and fixed (permanently bonded).

Benefits:

Essential for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment and a lasting smile.

A dentist shows a dental model to a young girl sitting in a chair, while an adult stands beside them.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Interceptive orthodontics is a proactive approach that aims to address dental issues while a child’s jaw is still growing, which can prevent more severe dental problems in the future. The benefits of early intervention include the prevention of serious orthodontic issues, improved appearance, and better oral health. For children aged 6-10, this is an ideal time to address problems like crossbites and crowding, as their jaw is still developing. Between ages 11-15, most children have permanent teeth, making it a suitable period for braces to correct alignment issues.

Finding the Right Pediatric Orthodontist

When selecting an orthodontist for your child, it’s important to consider their qualifications and experience to ensure they are well-suited to your family’s needs. Look for an orthodontist who has advanced training in orthodontics and experience working with children. Additionally, practical factors such as the office location, convenient hours, and treatment costs, including payment options or insurance coverage, should be taken into account. Taking the time to carefully choose the right orthodontist helps ensure your child receives excellent care and a positive overall experience.

Dentist showing a dental mold to a child sitting in a dental chair while an assistant looks on.

Conclusion

Best Orthodontics highlights the importance of early orthodontic evaluations for children, recommending visits by age seven. Early intervention can address potential dental issues like overbite, underbite, or crowding, preventing more serious problems later. With personalized treatment, such as braces or retainers, children can enjoy better oral health, improved self-esteem, and more manageable treatment in the future. Dr. John Dhoe provides specialized care, offering a welcoming environment for children.

FAQ

What age should a child go to orthodontist?

It’s wonderful that you’re being proactive about your child’s dental health! According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it’s recommended that a child visit an orthodontist for the first time around the age of seven. This might seem early, but it allows the orthodontist to catch and correct any potential issues before they become more serious. Remember, an initial visit doesn’t necessarily mean your child will need treatment right away. It’s more about keeping an eye on their development and making sure everything is on track.

Can a 6 year old see an orthodontist?

Absolutely! A 6-year-old can definitely visit an orthodontist. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first check-up with an orthodontist no later than age 7. This early check-up can help identify any potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. So, if you’re considering an orthodontic visit for your little one, go ahead! It’s a great step towards ensuring a healthy, beautiful smile for your child.

How painful are braces for kids?

It’s perfectly natural for children to experience some mild discomfort or soreness when they first get braces or after having them adjusted. This happens because the braces are working to move their teeth into alignment. The good news is that this discomfort generally fades within a few days and can often be eased with over-the-counter pain relief. In no time, their mouth adjusts to the braces, and they may hardly notice they’re wearing them anymore. So while braces might cause a little temporary discomfort, it’s both manageable and short-lived.