Braces for Kids at Charles River Orthodontics
At Charles River Orthodontics, we understand that braces are a significant step in your child’s journey toward a confident smile. When your child gets braces, small metal brackets are carefully attached to the front of their teeth. These brackets are connected by a wire that gently applies pressure, gradually shifting the teeth into their proper alignment. This process helps your child achieve the bright, healthy smile they’ve always dreamed of.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling an orthodontic evaluation for your child around the age of seven. At this stage, their jaw development can provide valuable insights into potential future orthodontic needs. Dr. Nina Khedkar and our skilled team will assess their dental health and create a customized treatment plan to address any concerns.
The decision to move forward with braces depends on several factors, including the complexity of the orthodontic issue and its root causes. Our experienced team at Charles River Orthodontics will guide you through the process, offering personalized recommendations based on your child’s unique needs.
By addressing orthodontic issues early, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. Trust us to provide exceptional care and results, making your child’s orthodontic experience both successful and enjoyable. Let’s work together to create a smile that lasts a lifetime!
What is the length of treatment time for Braces or Invisalign?
The length of your orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign can vary based on several important factors:
Timing of Intervention: Starting treatment early can be beneficial, as it allows for close monitoring of jaw development and the early identification of potential issues. However, early intervention isn’t always necessary. In some cases, it may be best to wait until your child’s primary teeth have been replaced by permanent ones.
Type of Correction: The complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed significantly impacts treatment duration. Treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on how your teeth respond to treatment and the nature of the adjustments required.
Adherence to Treatment: The speed of progress also depends on how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Consistently wearing your braces or aligners as prescribed and maintaining good oral hygiene can help accelerate the treatment process.
In conclusion, the length of your orthodontic treatment will depend on when treatment begins, the type of corrections needed, and how closely you follow your treatment plan.
Do Braces or Invisalign hurt?
The experience of wearing braces or Invisalign can vary from teen to teen, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, the goal of your teen’s orthodontist is to minimize discomfort as much as possible. Most teens report only mild “discomfort” rather than significant pain, and many experience little to no discomfort at all!
If your teen does experience pain, it’s important to contact the orthodontist. They can make adjustments to the braces or recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. Rest assured, your orthodontist is dedicated to ensuring that your child’s treatment is as comfortable as possible and will address any concerns promptly.
What is a Rapid Palatal Expander?
A rapid palatal expander (RPE) is a custom-designed appliance used to widen the upper jaw, also known as the palate or maxilla. The two halves of the palate are connected by a suture in the center of the roof of the mouth. The RPE is attached to the back teeth, and as it gently separates the suture, it widens the jaw. As the palate expands, new bone forms between the two halves of the upper jaw.
When is a Palatal Expander Needed?
A palatal expander offers several benefits. It can widen the upper arch, allowing the upper teeth to align better with the lower teeth for a more balanced bite. This expansion can also create space for crowded teeth, potentially eliminating the need for tooth extractions. Additionally, a narrow upper arch can restrict airflow, and studies have shown that an expander can improve air passages, leading to better breathing. Finally, widening the palate can help create a broader, more attractive smile.
The best results from a palatal expander are achieved when treatment is done during a period of growth, typically in children or young teens. This is when the expansion is easiest and the results are most stable.
