Orthodontics
We Create Well-Aligned Smiles
FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of irregularities of the teeth and jaw. It plays a crucial role in achieving a well-aligned bite and a beautiful smile through every stage of life. This is important for long-term health because if your teeth aren’t positioned correctly, you may experience numerous oral health challenges. From speaking and eating challenges to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, these can really affect your everyday life.
Through a variety of orthodontic treatments, the team at Dentistry for Children can address crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, and other bite misalignments. We always emphasize the importance of early orthodontic evaluations as early intervention can create excellent outcomes for children. However, we also provide orthodontic services to adults.
Early Orthodontic Evaluation
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY EVALUATION
We recommend that you bring your child into the dental office for an orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early evaluation allows us to detect any potential issues while the teeth and jaws are still growing. It is the ideal time to plan interventions and perform orthodontic treatment. This proactive approach ensures proper tooth and jaw development, as well as helps prevent the need for more complex treatments later in life. By assessing early, we can guide jaw growth, reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, and monitor the development of the bite over time.
What to Expect From an Orthodontic Evaluation
PHASES OF ORTHODONTIC CARE
During the first consultation, patients will see Dr. Hacopian, our in-house orthodontist. Dr. Hacopian will then determine the appropriate phase of orthodontic care, which will be either:
- Interceptive care: early treatment to address issues as they develop
- Phase I orthodontics: mixed dentition treatment for children with both baby and permanent teeth
- Phase II orthodontics: comprehensive treatment for fully developed permanent dentition
Our Orthodontics Services:
ENSURE EARLY DETECTION & INTERVENTION
UTILIZE ADVANCED ORTHODONTIC TECHNIQUES
PROMOTE HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Orthodontic Care
IN-HOUSE ORTHODONTIC SERVICES
Our practice offers comprehensive orthodontic care from an in-house orthodontist for every phase of life and dentition. This ensures continuity of care and convenience for our patients, providing a seamless experience from evaluation to treatment. Having an orthodontist on our team means that our patients receive specialized care and timely interventions, all within the familiar environment of our dental practice.
Interceptive Orthodontics for Children
PREVENT FUTURE ORTHODONTIC ISSUES
Interceptive orthodontics involves early interventions to guide the growth and development of a child’s teeth and jaws. This includes treatments such as space maintainers and palatal expanders. By addressing orthodontic issues early in a child’s life, we can reduce the chances they will need more complex treatments down the line.
Space Maintainers
MAINTAIN PROPER SPACE
Space maintainers are useful when a child loses baby teeth prematurely. By keeping the space open, space maintainers prevent the teeth nearby from shifting. This ensures that the new teeth have enough room to emerge into exactly the right places, reducing the need for more extensive orthodontic treatments later on.
Palatal Expanders
CORRECT JAW DISCREPANCIES
Palatal expanders gently widen the upper jaw to create enough space for all the permanent teeth to fit properly. This treatment can prevent or correct crossbites and improve overall alignment. The expander works gradually, gently widening the jaw over time to create the necessary space for proper tooth alignment.
Ceramic Braces
A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO A TRADITIONAL OPTION
Braces are a time-tested orthodontic treatment for correcting alignment issues. We offer ceramic braces with clear brackets for a more aesthetic option than traditional metal braces. This orthodontic treatment straightens teeth and improves the alignment of the bite. Braces can correct a variety of orthodontic problems, including overcrowding and gaps. Every treatment plan is completely personalized so that each patient can achieve the smile they’re looking for.
Invisalign™
CLEAR ALIGNERS FOR ALL AGES
Invisalign is a popular option for both teens and adults seeking a discreet way to straighten their teeth. A series of custom clear aligners gradually shift the teeth into the right places. Invisalign offers a comfortable, nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are also removable, allowing for easy cleaning and the ability to eat without restrictions. This makes them a convenient choice for those with busy lifestyles.
Retainers
MAINTAINING YOUR NEW SMILE
After orthodontic treatment, retainers are essential to maintain the new alignment of your teeth. At Dentistry for Children, we offer three types of retainers:
- Clear retainers: a removable and discreet choice
- Removable retainers: easy to clean and use, providing flexibility
- Fixed retainers: bonded to the back of your teeth for permanent retention, preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment
Afford your care - even those unexpected dental procedures!
Whether you have insurance or not, at Dentistry for Children, we offer a range of payment methods to help families afford their dental care.
We accept cash, major credit cards, and checks.
We also accept CareCredit, which offers flexible monthly payments, with zero interest for six or 12 months.
If you have dental insurance, our team can help you navigate your insurance benefits so you can determine your out-of-pocket costs and deductibles.