In order to bite and chew properly, you need teeth that work together, making orthodontic treatment an important part of your child’s oral health care. Orthodontic treatment not only gives them a beautiful smile,but it sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Backus Smiles Orthodontics treats every patient like family, no matter how small. Our team wants your child to receive the right care for a healthy, beaming smile in adulthood, including braces and other orthodontic treatments.
Even if your child isn’t ready for braces, an early visit to a Mountain Brook, AL children’s orthodontics clinic can provide helpful insights into how their teeth and jaw are developing. We carefully monitor the dental progress of our youngest patients, starting treatment at the right time for the best outcomes. This approach also helps your family plan and budget for orthodontic care, including braces and other procedures.
Call us today, no matter your child’s age. Our team will help create a happy, healthy smile goes goes beyond regular cleaning.
A Mountain Brook Children’s Orthodontics Dentist Can Help Your Child
As your child grows, their bodies change dramatically, and their teeth are no exception. Losing baby teeth and growing adult teeth aren’t the only changes happening in your child’s mouth as they grow. Early adult teeth often become crowded, leaving little room for proper placement. Protruding teeth can also increase the risk of injury, especially to the incisors.
Observing your child’s jaw growth and teeth development early can help answer essential questions about orthodontic care:
- Is there enough space for new teeth?
- Will teeth straighten on their own as growth continues?
- Should steps be taken to expand the mouth?
Our team takes a gentle, thorough approach to children’s orthodontics. If early intervention is needed, we act promptly to prevent bigger problems and keep minor issues from becoming serious.
Could Your Child May Need Orthodontic Treatment?
An orthodontist can determine your child’s specific needs, but there are common signs to watch for, including:
- Upper incisors that stick out
- Crowding of the incisors
- Thumb-sucking habits
- Crossbite (upper teeth sit behind lower teeth)
- Jaw development concerns, like a protruding or underdeveloped lower jaw
- Open bite (front teeth don’t meet)
You can also assess your child’s teeth by asking them to bite down and checking for these indicators:
- Upper teeth sitting behind lower teeth
- Upper and lower front teeth failing to align
- Upper teeth extending far beyond lower teeth
- Front teeth covering more than a quarter of the bottom teeth
- Noticeable protruding teeth
If your child’s teeth don’t meet properly or seem out of alignment, schedule a pediatric orthodontic evaluation with our office.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Curious about early orthodontic care for your child? Contact Backus Smiles Orthodontics today to set up a consultation. A Mountain Brook children’s orthodontist will evaluate your child’s needs and recommend the best path for straight teeth and a healthy smile.
Importance Of Children’s Orthodontics In Mountain Brook, AL
Children’s orthodontics promotes healthy dental development and prevents future oral health problems. For families in Mountain Brook, AL, starting orthodontic care at the right age can significantly impact the alignment of your child’s teeth and overall oral health.
When Should You Consider Orthodontic Treatment For Your Child?
Orthodontic treatment for children typically begins around age 7, as this is when many dental professionals suggest evaluating your child’s bite and dental development. Early intervention allows orthodontists to identify issues such as crooked teeth, bite problems, or jaw alignment concerns before they become more serious.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling an initial consultation around this age to ensure any necessary treatment is initiated at the appropriate time. While not all children will require orthodontic intervention this early, catching potential problems early on can prevent more complex treatments later in life.
Common Orthodontic Issues In Children
There are a variety of dental and jaw issues that may be addressed through children’s orthodontics, including:
- Overbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. This condition can cause wear on the teeth and jaw discomfort.
- Underbite: An underbite happens when the lower teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth, often resulting in difficulty biting or chewing.
- Crossbite: In a crossbite, some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which can lead to tooth wear, gum recession, and bone loss over time.
- Crowded Teeth: If your child’s mouth does not have enough room for all their teeth, crowding can occur, leading to misalignment.
- Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth or underdeveloped jawbones, and orthodontics can help close these gaps.
Why Early Orthodontic Intervention Matters
Early orthodontic treatment provides several benefits for children. By addressing alignment issues early, orthodontists can help guide the proper growth of the teeth and jaws, reducing the need for more extensive treatments in the future. Some advantages of early intervention include:
- Improved Bite Alignment: Correcting bite issues early on helps prevent jaw strain, headaches, and difficulties with chewing or speaking.
- Aesthetic Benefits: Early treatment can enhance the appearance of your child’s smile, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
- Prevention of Dental Problems: Early treatment can reduce the risk of dental trauma, gum disease, and tooth decay that may occur from misaligned teeth.
- Shorter Treatment Duration: Starting orthodontic care earlier often results in shorter overall treatment times, as fewer adjustments are necessary as the child’s teeth and jaw develop.
The Types Of Orthodontic Treatments For Children
At Backus Smiles, we offer a range of treatment options designed specifically for children’s orthodontics. These treatments include:
- Traditional Metal Braces: Traditional braces remain a reliable option for addressing severe alignment issues in children. They consist of metal brackets and wires and can correct a variety of problems.
- Clear Braces: Clear ceramic braces are a more discreet option for children who need orthodontic treatment but prefer a less noticeable look.
- Invisalign Teen: For children who are more self-conscious about braces, Invisalign offers clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten teeth without the need for wires or brackets.
- Palatal Expanders: These devices are used to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for adult teeth to come in properly.
How To Care For Your Child’s Braces
Orthodontic care doesn’t end when the braces are applied. Proper maintenance is essential to achieving the desired results. Encourage your child to:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Teeth should be cleaned after every meal to remove food particles and plaque.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Hard or sticky foods can damage braces, so it’s important to avoid chewing gum, hard candies, or anything that could cause discomfort.
- Wear Rubber Bands as Directed: If your child is given rubber bands to wear, ensure they follow the orthodontist’s instructions for optimal results.
Why Choose Us For Your Child’s Orthodontic Care?
At Backus Smiles Orthodontics, we understand the importance of creating a positive experience for children undergoing orthodontic treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, professional care in a child-friendly environment. With personalized treatment plans, we ensure that your child’s journey to a healthier smile is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Fun fact: Did you know that braces have been around for thousands of years? Archaeologists have found evidence of ancient civilizations using metal bands and other devices to straighten teeth! Today, modern orthodontics continues to advance, offering even better solutions for kids.
Start Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey Today
Taking care of your child’s dental health early sets them up for a lifetime of benefits. Whether your child needs braces or other orthodontic treatments, Backus Smiles Orthodontics is here to help. Reach out today to schedule an appointment and give your child the gift of a beautiful, healthy smile.
Oral Health Tips To Share With Your Kids
Good oral health starts with simple daily habits. By teaching your kids proper brushing, flossing, and healthy eating, you’re helping them maintain strong teeth and gums. Teaching them the right techniques and emphasizing the importance of dental care can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other issues. Then, if your child ends up needing braces, invisalign, or other interventions, they’ll have a great foundation for taking extra care of themselves and keeping their treatment on track. Here are ten simple oral health tips from our Mountain Brook children’s orthodontics office to share with your kids.
Brush Twice A Day
Brushing in the morning and before bed is essential for keeping teeth clean and free of plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and bacteria. Encourage your child to brush for two minutes each time and make it a fun routine by using a timer or playing their favorite song. Reinforce the importance of reaching all tooth surfaces, including the gumline and back molars.
Use The Right Brushing Technique
Brushing too hard or using the wrong technique can lead to gum irritation and missed spots. Teach your child to use small, gentle circles to clean every surface of their teeth, including the back molars. Remind them not to scrub aggressively, as this can wear down enamel and cause gum sensitivity. Supervising young children as they brush can help reinforce proper technique until they develop good habits.
Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque and food between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Show your child how to gently slide the floss between their teeth and along the gumline. Floss picks can make it easier for younger kids who struggle with traditional floss. Reinforce the importance of flossing once a day, especially before bedtime, to prevent plaque buildup and cavities between teeth.
Scrape The Tongue
The tongue harbors bacteria that contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. Teach your child to gently scrape their tongue using a tongue scraper or the back of their toothbrush. This simple habit helps keep their breath fresh and removes lingering bacteria that could lead to oral health problems over time.
Limit Sugary Snacks And Drinks
Sugary foods and drinks contribute to cavities, headaches, and enamel erosion. Everything is of course fine in moderation, but we recommend encouraging your child to drink water instead of soda or juice and choose healthy snacks like fruits, cheese, and yogurt as often as possible, then enjoying sweet treats during special occasions like holiday celebrations, birthday parties, and trips to the movies. When your child does indulge, perhaps help them spend some extra time on their brushing and flossing regimen. Health is all about balance!
Drink Plenty Of Water
Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria while keeping the mouth hydrated. Fluoridated water also strengthens enamel and prevents decay. Our Mountain Brook children’s orthodontics team cannot emphasize enough how important it is to encourage your child to drink water throughout the day.
Replace Toothbrushes Regularly
Toothbrushes wear out over time, making them less effective. Replace your child’s toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles look frayed. A new toothbrush keeps their brushing routine effective.
Visit The Dentist Regularly
Routine dental checkups help catch problems early and keep teeth healthy. Schedule visits every six months so a dentist can monitor your child’s oral health and provide professional cleanings.
Wear A Mouthguard For Sports
If your child plays contact sports, a mouthguard can help protect their teeth from injury. Custom-fit options provide the best protection, but store-bought versions also offer good coverage.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Chewing on pens, biting nails, or using teeth to open packaging can damage enamel and cause chips. Teach your child to avoid these habits and use their teeth only for chewing food.
Consider Orthodontic Care Early
Early orthodontic evaluations can identify potential alignment issues before they become more serious. If you’re looking for children’s orthodontics in or near Mountain Brook, Alabama, a consultation with our office can help determine the right approach.
At Backus Smiles Orthodontics, we offer personalized and approachable care for young patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about Mountain Brook children’s orthodontics options for your family.
Children’s Orthodontics FAQs
At Backus Smiles Orthodontics, we often hear from parents who want to know what to expect when considering orthodontic services for their family. Below, we’ve answered common questions to help you prepare for your child’s care.
At What Age Should I Child Go To The Orthodontist?
We recommend that children visit the orthodontist around age 7. This is a good time because most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which allows us to see how their mouth is developing.
When it comes to your child’s dental health, knowing the right time to visit the orthodontist can make a difference. Early evaluation helps us identify any problems with tooth or jaw development and plan treatment as needed.
Even if your child doesn’t need braces right away, an early visit helps us catch any issues before they become bigger problems. We’ll check the way their teeth are coming in and see if there’s anything that might need treatment later on.
How Long Do Kids Typically Wear Braces?
The length of time your child will wear braces depends on what needs to be corrected. On average, most kids wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Some treatments may be shorter or longer, depending on the severity of the alignment issues and how well your child follows our instructions.
During your child’s consultation, we’ll go over the estimated timeline so you know what to expect. With our Mountain Brook children’s orthodontics services, the goal is to provide effective treatment that works for your child.
Does Insurance Cover Braces?
Many dental insurance plans help cover part of the cost of braces. The exact amount depends on your plan. Some insurance policies include orthodontic benefits, while others may not cover treatment at all.
Before starting care, we’ll help you review your coverage so you have a clear idea of what is included. If you don’t have orthodontic coverage through insurance, we can also discuss payment options to make treatment more affordable.
Can My Child Get Braces With Medicaid?
Medicaid may cover braces for children in certain cases, but coverage varies by state and depends on whether the braces are considered medically necessary. If your child qualifies, Medicaid may pay for all or part of the treatment.
We can assist you with the process by checking your child’s eligibility and helping you gather the information needed. When it comes to Mountain Brook children’s orthodontics, we want to make care accessible and will walk you through the available options.
Is It Normal For A 7 Year Old To Get Braces?
It is not uncommon for a 7-year-old to get braces. In some cases, early treatment is helpful to correct problems like crowding or bite issues before they get worse. This early phase of treatment can make future orthodontic work easier or shorter.
We will only recommend braces for younger children if it’s the best option for their dental health. If your child doesn’t need braces at that age, we’ll continue to monitor their growth and development over time.
Address Your Questions With Our Team
If you’re wondering whether orthodontic care is right for your child, we’re here to help. At Backus Smiles Orthodontics, we provide trusted care for families looking into Mountain Brook, AL children’s orthodontics. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary first visit and learn more about the next steps for your child’s smile.