Offering Braces for Children in the Las Vegas, NV, Area
If you’re looking for a highly experienced orthodontic dentist in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area, turn to Radiant Smiles. We provide various orthodontic services, including braces for children. Our staff understands that children may be nervous about getting braces, so we put effort into making them comfortable and relaxed during their time in our office. We can evaluate your child’s bite alignment and dental health to recommend the best orthodontic devices to straighten their smile.
When Should My Child Visit an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children first see an orthodontist around the age of seven. By identifying and correcting orthodontic issues early, you can prevent future dental issues.
While people can receive orthodontic treatment at any age, children and teenagers benefit the most from braces, as the process is much faster and generally less painful. Moving the teeth into their correct positions is easier since children’s teeth and jaws are still growing. In addition, early evaluation and treatment can help identify facial and oral abnormalities that may cause bite misalignment in the future.
What Causes Misalignment?
Many cases of bite misalignment (malocclusion) result from genetic predisposition or developmental problems of the teeth and jaws. Misaligned teeth can cause trouble speaking, biting, and chewing, and malocclusion can sometimes be caused or exacerbated by the following behaviors:
- Prolonged pacifier use
- Poor oral hygiene
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Poor nutrition
It’s important to note any of the above behaviors to avoid reversal of orthodontic treatment after your child has their braces removed.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Exam?
First, the orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw to look for abnormalities. After this visual exam, they will take X-rays and bite impressions to evaluate the degree and type of malocclusion and generate 3D images of your child’s head and neck. This process is sometimes called the planning phase and is integral for a correct diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Resolving any existing dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease, is essential before beginning orthodontic treatment.
What Types of Appliances Do Orthodontists Use?
Keep in mind that your child may need multiple types of orthodontic appliances to correct their bite, which may include one or more of the following:
- Fixed braces – Braces comprised of brackets affixed to each tooth and an archwire that connects the brackets. The brackets are usually made of metal, ceramic, or clear synthetic material (which is less noticeable). After getting braces, your child will have regular appointments to adjust the tension on the braces to move the teeth into their correct positions. In addition, we may add elastic bands to your child’s orthodontic treatment to aid the movement of specific teeth.
- Headgear – This appliance is most useful for treating developmental irregularities. A headgear is a custom-made appliance attached to wire worn to aid tooth movement. A headgear is intended to be worn for 12-20 hours each day and must be worn as recommended to work properly and achieve the intended results.
- Retainers – Retainers are typically prescribed in the third phase of orthodontic treatment, referred to as the retention phase. After correcting your child’s malocclusion, we must ensure the teeth do not regress into improper alignment. Wearing a retainer helps maintain proper tooth alignment following orthodontic treatment, and the retainer also gives the jawbone a chance to stabilize and support the teeth in their new positions.
Your child’s treatment plan depends on their unique case, such as whether they need dental procedures, have jaw growth abnormalities, or have missing or extra teeth. We will perform a careful examination to determine the best treatment for them.
Reach Out to Our Team
If you have questions about our braces for children, please get in touch with Radiant Smiles today. Our team can answer your questions and schedule a consultation at one of our offices near Las Vegas, NV, so you can get the best orthodontic treatment for your child.
