Did you know that your child should see an orthodontist by the age of seven years old? This may seem young, but coming in at this young age allows their specialist to examine their smile and determine the proper alignment plan before starting braces. In today’s blog, your Riverside, CA, dental team explains the importance of phase one treatment.
A Way To Guide Jaw Development
The goal of phase one treatment is to help your child’s jaw develop fully and ensure there is enough space for teeth to shift during the alignment process. Intercepting potential problems, such as overbites, underbites, and spacing issues, early can help prevent significant issues in the future. When they come in for their consultation, the orthodontist will perform a thorough examination and may take X-rays and other images of your little one’s smile. This can help create a baseline for treatment and determine what steps should be taken first. Your child may need additional treatment in the form of a retainer or expander.
Getting Started With Phase Two
After their jaw has fully developed and initial concerns have been treated, they can move on to phase two of orthodontic treatment. This will involve using either braces or Invisalign to correct their smiles. We use traditional metal braces for young patients because they are durable, can correct a wide range of problems, and are fully monitored by the orthodontists. Teenagers or adults may be good candidates for Invisalign but will need a consultation before starting.
With traditional braces, metal brackets will be bonded to your teeth and connected with arch wire. Your teeth will gradually be shifted into proper alignment. This process takes about one to two years to complete. This process can initially seem intimidating, but you can remind your child that most of their friends will go through this same treatment, and they will have a symmetrical smile at the end of the process.
The Alignment Process For Adults
Were you unable to get orthodontic care as a child? It’s not too late to start. We offer discreet alignment options for adults that help you straighten your smile without others noticing. Invisalign is a method that uses clear trays to move your teeth into the proper position. If you are not a good candidate for this method, we also have ceramic braces that are less noticeable than the metal kind. You can discuss your options with your orthodontist to find out which method is best for your lifestyle.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Consultation Today
The interceptive step can help prevent serious misalignment concerns in the future. Call your nearest Riverside Dental Group location to schedule a consultation.
Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.
Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.
Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest (951) 776-9001
Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.
Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.
Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.
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