Orthodontics for Children

By Suzanne Bird | Published on September 30, 2011 | 0 Comments

Dr. Suzanne Bird, a Charlotte pediatric dentist and orthodontist, owner of Bird Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, says that the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that a child first be evaluated by an orthodontist at the age of 7. Often times, says Dr. Bird, treatment can be rendered early to help steer the growth and development to prepare for better eruption of the permanent teeth. Around age 6, Dr. Bird says she can start to get a sense if Charlotte braces will be needed.

Dr. Bird says when her patients are really young, even before age 7, if there are any habits they have, like thumb sucking, there are appliances that can be used to stop these habits. If a child comes in at age 7, says Dr. Bird, and the teeth are very crowded due to a very narrow upper arch, an expander can be used to widen them and correct crossbites. If the crowding continues to develop as the permanent teeth come in, it will cause further complications down the line. Dr. Bird can pick up on potential orthodontic treatments and help parents plan for future treatment.

Around the age of 12, Dr. Bird says that most children have typically received all of their permanent teeth.  Full upper and lower braces can then be placed on the patients teeth at that time, says Dr. Bird.

Usually, children wear braces for 1 to 2 years, says Dr. Bird. When the treatment is done, children are given retainers to help keep the new position of the teeth and are monitored for a period of time after that, says Dr. Bird.

Dr. Bird, a Charlotte pediatric dentist, offers complementary consultations for patients interested in getting Charlotte braces. An orthodontics consultation generally last for an hour and a half. Dr Bird says she will take a series of x-rays and a series of photographs of the teeth. Dr. Bird says she uses these in her assessment to determine if the patient is ready for braces, and if so, what treatment is needed.

The child’s parents will also have an opportunity to sit down with the orthodontic treatment coordinator to get a good idea of how much the procedure is going to cost, as well as information on financing options, says Dr. Bird.  Also, if the patient has insurance that will cover any of the costs for the orthodontic treatment, Dr. Bird’s office will take care of the paperwork and file it for you, she says.

For more information on orthodontics for children, contact Bird Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics today.

*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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