Children and Teen Orthodontics in Lanham, MD

At Smiles Pediatric Dental Care, our dentists are trained and experienced in providing the latest orthodontic treatments for children.

Why Get Braces?

The most obvious reason for wearing braces, spacers, expanders, and retainers is to correct the alignment of teeth. In some cases, treatment involves expanding the upper arch to create more room for permanent adult teeth. Other patients need correction of a crossbite, overbite, or underbite. Yet other cases are purely cosmetic, straightening the front teeth for a more attractive smile.

DID YOU KNOW?

All orthodontists are trained as dentists, but only 5% of dentists are also orthodontists!

Benefits of orthodontic treatment:

• Creates space for future permanent teeth
• Corrects bite (occlusal) issues
• Reduces risk for bruxism (clenching and grinding)
• Reduces risk of TMJ disorder
• Reduces risk of jawbone erosion
• Improves esthetics of mouth (and self-image)
• Straight teeth are easier to clean
• Straight teeth reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities
• More comfortable and effective chewing

Phased Orthodontics

The purpose of two-phase orthodontics is to prepare the mouth for permanent teeth to develop straight and evenly. Later, in the teen years, phase two ensures that permanent teeth are optimally aligned for appearance, function, and comfort.

At age seven, children need an orthodontic screening to determine whether phased orthodontics are necessary.

What parents need to know about phase one ortho treatment:

• The earlier a child’s bite and teeth alignment are corrected, the stronger and healthier their teeth will be later.
• Your child’s baby teeth are placeholders, reserving space for permanent teeth that will develop later.
• As permanent teeth develop, corrected alignment will help with permanent tooth placement.

Esthetic Options with Braces

Younger patients often enjoy wearing colorful ligature bands on their braces. Colors can represent sports teams, schools, holidays, or personal style. Children enjoy the freedom to select their colors at each adjustment appointment when ligatures are changed.

Some teen patients desire a more inconspicuous appearance for their braces. Our doctors can place clear or ceramic tooth-colored brackets instead of metallic brackets.

Commit to the Treatment Plan

Parents, patients, and our staff must team up to make the orthodontic Kidsperience the best it can be. We’re fully committed to providing the latest, most effective treatment and materials for every patient. Parents and patients must commit to:

• Attending adjustment visits (about every six weeks)
• Omitting sticky, chewy foods from the patient’s diet (i.e.: no gum, caramel, or popcorn)
• Cleaning your teeth after every meal or snack
• Wearing braces for the entire treatment time
• Wearing a retainer after braces to preserve alignment

There’s nothing quite like a patient’s smile the day that braces are removed. Each one is unique and beautiful!

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontist Appointment Today!

If our dentists have recommended an orthodontic screening or your child is ready for braces, we’ll help you make the entire Kidsperience as pleasant and rewarding as possible. Our staff members provide service in English or Spanish, catering to our patients’ needs. We invite you to call Smiles Pediatric Dental Care today!