Roseburg Orthodontist for Kids

You can tell if your child needs orthodontic treatment by looking for signs such as crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, frequent thumb-sucking, early or late loss of baby teeth, and jaw misalignment.

If you notice these issues, scheduling an orthodontic consultation is the best way to determine if treatment is necessary. An orthodontist will evaluate your child’s teeth, jaw growth, and bite through a physical examination, X-rays, and digital scans.

Even if there are no visible problems, early evaluations can help detect potential issues before they become more severe. Treating orthodontic problems early can prevent more complicated and costly procedures later on and ensure proper jaw development for a healthier smile.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

Your child should see an orthodontist by age seven, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists. At this age, their permanent teeth are starting to come in, and an orthodontist can assess jaw growth, bite alignment, and potential issues early on.

Even if no immediate treatment is needed, an early evaluation allows the orthodontist to monitor development and determine the best time for intervention if necessary. Early detection of orthodontic problems can help prevent more severe issues in the future, making treatment easier and often shorter.

At what age can we start child orthodontic treatment?

Child orthodontic treatment can start as early as age six or seven, depending on the child’s specific needs. Early treatment is recommended when there are significant issues with jaw growth, severe crowding, or bite alignment that could worsen over time.

For most children, full orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners typically begins between ages 9 and 14, when most permanent teeth have come in. The exact timing depends on the child’s dental development and the complexity of the orthodontic issues. Dr. LeMert will evaluate your child’s teeth and jaw to determine the best time to start treatment for the most effective results.

How do I prepare my kid for their first orthodontic visit?

To prepare your kid for their first orthodontic visit, start by explaining what to expect in a simple and positive way. Let them know that the orthodontist will look at their teeth, take pictures or X-rays, and discuss if any treatment is needed. Emphasize that the visit is painless and meant to help them achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Encourage your kid to ask questions and express any concerns they might have. You can also read kid’s books or watch videos about orthodontic visits to make them feel more comfortable. On the day of the appointment, ensure they brush their teeth beforehand and arrive on time to create a relaxed experience. A calm and supportive approach will help make the visit stress-free and set the stage for a positive orthodontic journey.

Types of orthodontic treatments available for children are traditional braces, clear aligners (invisalign), space maintainers, palatal expanders, and functional appliances. Each option is designed to correct different orthodontic issues, from crowding and misalignment to bite problems and jaw growth irregularities.

Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common and effective treatment for children. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth and connected by wires and elastic bands. Over time, the wires are adjusted to gradually move the teeth into their proper positions. Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and come with colorful elastics, which can make them fun for kids.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are an alternative to braces for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. These custom-made, removable trays gradually shift teeth into place. They are nearly invisible and allow kids to eat and brush without restrictions. However, clear aligners require discipline, as they must be worn at least 20-22 hours a day to be effective.

Space Maintainers
If a child loses a baby tooth too early, a space maintainer may be used to hold the space open until the permanent tooth comes in. These devices prevent other teeth from shifting and help ensure proper alignment as new teeth grow in.

Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper jaw when it is too narrow. This treatment is often recommended for children with crossbites or severe crowding. The expander is attached to the upper molars and gradually widened over time. By expanding the jaw early, it can help avoid the need for tooth extractions or more complex treatments later.

Functional Appliances
Functional appliances are used to correct bite problems, such as overbites and underbites, by guiding jaw growth. Examples include the Herbst appliance, which helps correct severe overbites, and the Twin Block appliance, which encourages proper lower jaw growth. These appliances are most effective when used during a child’s growth phase.

How long does a child’s orthodontic treatment last?

The length of a child’s orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of their dental issues, the type of treatment used, and how well they follow their orthodontist’s instructions. On average, most children wear braces or clear aligners for 18 to 24 months, but treatment can range from six months to three years in more complex cases.

For early intervention treatments, such as palatal expanders or space maintainers, treatment may last several months to a year before a second phase of braces or aligners is needed later. Children who follow guidelines for wearing rubber bands, clear aligners, or retainers may finish treatment faster.

The different types of braces available for children are metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. The choice of braces depends on the child’s needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals.

Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common and reliable option for children. They consist of stainless steel brackets attached to the teeth and connected by a wire that is periodically adjusted to shift teeth into the correct position. Small rubber bands (ligatures) hold the wire in place, and children can choose from different colors, making them a fun and customizable option.

Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets, making them less visible. They are a popular choice for children and teens who want a more discreet look while undergoing treatment.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign First for younger children and Invisalign Teen for teenagers, are a popular alternative to braces. These custom-made, removable trays gradually move teeth into position without brackets or wires.

Are braces painful for children?

Braces are not usually painful for children, but they can cause some temporary discomfort, especially after they are first placed or adjusted. This discomfort is a normal part of the process as the teeth begin to shift into their correct positions.

Most children feel mild soreness for a few days after getting braces or after routine adjustments. This happens because the brackets and wires apply gentle pressure to move the teeth. Additionally, the inside of the mouth may become irritated by the brackets and wires until the cheeks and lips adjust. However, the discomfort typically fades within a week.

To help manage any soreness, children can eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies, use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed, and apply orthodontic wax to areas where brackets or wires cause irritation. Drinking cold water or sucking on ice can also help soothe discomfort.

Will my kid need to wear a retainer after braces?

Yes, your kid will need to wear a retainer after braces to maintain their newly aligned teeth and prevent them from shifting back to their original positions. Retainers are a crucial part of the orthodontic process, as teeth naturally tend to move over time, especially in the months following the removal of braces.

Orthodontists typically recommend wearing a retainer full-time (except when eating or brushing) for the first several months after braces are removed. After this initial period, most kids transition to wearing the retainer only at night. The length of time a kid needs to wear a retainer depends on their individual case, but many orthodontists suggest lifelong nighttime wear to keep teeth in their ideal positions.

What are the risks or complications associated with braces?

The risks or complications associated with braces include temporary discomfort, mouth irritation, difficulty maintaining oral hygiene, and the risk of teeth shifting after treatment. While these complications are manageable, it is important for children to follow their orthodontist’s instructions to ensure the best results.

How do you care for teeth with braces?

Caring for teeth with braces requires extra attention to oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Since braces create small spaces where food and bacteria can get trapped, maintaining a consistent cleaning routine is essential for keeping teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day, ideally after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for braces. A fluoride toothpaste is recommended to help strengthen enamel. When brushing, they should clean around the brackets and wires carefully, angling the toothbrush to reach all surfaces of the teeth and gumline. Interdental brushes can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas around brackets and wires.

Diet also plays a role in caring for braces. Children should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods which can damage brackets and wires. Instead, they should opt for softer foods and cut crunchy foods like apples and carrots into smaller pieces.

Are there any foods my kid should avoid while wearing braces?

Yes, your kid should avoid certain hard, sticky, chewy, and sugary foods while wearing braces to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. Eating the wrong foods can cause brackets to break, wires to bend, and plaque to build up, which can lead to cavities and extend treatment time.

Hard foods like popcorn, nuts, ice, and hard candies should be avoided because they can break brackets or bend wires.

Sticky and chewy foods such as gum, caramel, and taffy can get stuck in braces, making them difficult to clean and increasing the risk of tooth decay.

Tough foods like bagels, thick bread, and certain meats can also put too much pressure on the braces and cause them to loosen.

Sugary foods and drinks, including soda, candy, and sports drinks, should be limited because they can lead to plaque buildup around brackets, increasing the chance of cavities.

If your kid eats foods like apples, carrots, or corn on the cob, they should be cut into small pieces or removed from the cob to avoid damaging the braces.

If your child has a dental emergency with braces, the first step is to assess the severity of the issue and determine whether it requires immediate attention from an orthodontist or if it can be managed at home until the next appointment. Common orthodontic emergencies include broken brackets, poking wires, loose bands, mouth sores, and significant discomfort.

If your child experiences severe pain, swelling, or bleeding, or if a bracket or wire causes significant injury to the mouth, contact the orthodontist immediately. In rare cases where a serious injury has affected the teeth or jaw, visit an emergency dentist or urgent care center.

For minor issues, keeping a braces care kit with orthodontic wax, floss, salt for rinses, and pain relievers can help manage discomfort at home until professional care is available.

What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and an orthodontist?

The difference between a pediatric dentist and an orthodontist is that a pediatric dentist focuses on general dental care, while an orthodontist specializes in aligning teeth and jaws.

A pediatric dentist provides routine checkups, cavity treatment, cleanings, and preventive care for children. They ensure healthy tooth development and address common dental issues.

An orthodontist corrects crooked teeth, bite problems, and jaw misalignment using braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances. While pediatric dentists monitor oral health, they refer children to an orthodontist when alignment issues require specialized treatment.

Insurance coverage for orthodontic treatments for children depends on the dental insurance plan. Many dental insurance plans in the U.S. offer partial coverage for braces or other orthodontic treatments, but the amount covered varies based on the provider and policy.

Most plans that include orthodontic benefits cover a percentage of the treatment cost (typically 50%) up to a lifetime maximum for each child.

It’s important for parents to check their insurance policy details, including waiting periods, coverage limits, and whether the orthodontist is in-network. Many orthodontic offices also offer payment plans or financing options to help make treatment more affordable.