Are you looking for a children’s orthodontist in Sammamish? If your child needs a private orthodontist in Sammamish, it is time to start looking at options.
Did you know over 4 million people in the United States wear braces? And 75% of these people are children. Braces for kids are common, and provide a lot of medical and functional benefits!
But at what age should you start considering orthodontic treatment? Or even an orthodontic check-up? It may be earlier than you might think.
Keep reading to find out how our orthodontist practice in Sammamish can help! We can tell you what age your child should start check-ups and treatment programs!
What Is Orthodontics?
In dentistry, Orthodontics treats the condition where teeth are not correctly positioned. The result is an improper bite.
Orthodontic medicine is not just for cosmetic purposes! An improved appearance is the most obvious result, but there are also plenty of unseen benefits.
Why Should Kids Get Orthodontic Treatment?
There are common issues that can cause children to need orthodontic treatment at an earlier age.
Signs your child needs early treatment include
- Visibly crooked or misplaced teeth
- Thumb sucking after 5 years old
- Worn down baby teeth
- Improper bite alignment
- Rapid jaw growth
- Mouth breathing
Other signs to look for are extra teeth, crowded teeth, missing teeth, and damaged adult teeth. In an ideal world, the bottom and top teeth should line up perfectly when the jaw closes.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Braces for children are not simply to have a nice, straight smile. They are extremely important for dental health.
Benefits include:
- Children’s bones are still soft
- Corrective procedures work faster
- Lays the foundation for healthy adult teeth
- Children have fewer cavities
- Teeth are easier to clean
You want your child to have a healthy and functional bite. When the jaw lines up correctly, everything works as it should.
Emotional Benefits
Orthodontic treatment can provide your child with some huge mental health benefits like:
- Clearer speech
- Improved self-confidence
- Improved self-image
- More likely to take part in social events
Good dental health is important for a healthy quality of life all around!
What Age to Consider Orthodontic Treatment
Since every child develops at different rates, dental development is also different for each child.
For this reason, the age to start treatment varies. When you notice your child losing teeth, ask your dentist about a visit to the orthodontist.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children see an orthodontist by the age of 7 for an initial exam. At Sammamish Orthodontics, check-ups and treatment begin between the ages of 6-11 years old.
Children younger than 6 can even benefit from early orthodontic treatment and may be referred by a pediatric specialist.
What Can You Expect?
Most of the time, early orthodontic screening is to monitor your child’s growth and development as they move into their adult years.
Treatment is not usually started right away, but you will know if your child is ready to start Phase 1 of their treatment.
Phase 1 consists of taking care of structural problems that would cause future tooth extractions or even surgery. This phase is early in orthodontic treatment, as it takes place when children are making the transition from baby teeth to adult teeth.
During this phase, abnormal skeletal growth is corrected, and space is made to allow adequate room for adult teeth.
Different types of dental appliances are used for this phase such as expanders, clear aligners, or appliances. These appliances can be fixed or removable.
The length of this phase takes about 12 months on average. The next phase of treatment usually consists of braces if more correction is required.
The length of time between treatment phases averages between 1 to 5 years.
Looking for a Private Children’s Orthodontist?
If you are looking for braces for a child in Sammamish, WA then you’re in luck. Sammamish Orthodontist offers a mix of technology and personal experience to make your visit exceptional.
Dr. Rooz Khosravi is a digital technology leader and developed the PORTH Clear Aligner System. These are 3D printed clear aligners that can be ready the same day. Dr. Rooz has extensive experience in treating young children, teenagers, and adults too!
Problems Sammamish Orthodontist Treats
Common conditions that are treated include:
Flared teeth usually occur from abnormal jaw growth, and the upper teeth flare out. This is caused by a smaller lower jaw and extra space between the top and bottom row of teeth.
Tooth issues can arise from certain habits such as thumb sucking, lip sucking, and chewing hard objects. This can cause the top and bottom rows of teeth not to touch each other.
Overcrowding means there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all the teeth to grow. Children with small jawbones or large teeth don’t have room for everything to fit! So they end up with a crowded bite or an overbite.
A crossbite happens when the upper teeth come down inside the lower teeth. Biting down can cause the jaw to shift.
Broken teeth or misalignment from an injury can also be treated.
Children’s Orthodontist In Sammamish
If you need expert orthodontic care, then turn to Sammamish Orthodontics.
We offer state-of-the-art dental technology, along with a friendly and caring atmosphere.
Your smile is well worth the investment, and you deserve a healthy and happy smile. Dr. Rooz Khosravi is a top-rated orthodontist in Sammamish, WA with a 5-star Google rating.
We offer flexible payment options, financing, and accept dental insurance plans.
Dr. Rooz Khosravi and his team offer a positive and professional orthodontic experience. Contact us today online, or call (425) 526-2060.