Orthodontics
It’s estimated that almost 50% of children need orthodontic care to correct a problem like a misaligned bite or crooked teeth. Without treatment, kids with orthodontic troubles may experience problems like poor dental health and difficulty chewing.
Working with your child’s orthodontist in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL, can help. The professionals at Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry are experts at helping children with orthodontic problems like crowded teeth and misaligned jaw. Whatever your child’s orthodontic challenges are, we’re here to help. Our orthodontic services can help align your child’s teeth and perfect their smile.
Orthodontics in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL
Braces
Braces are made of brackets and wires attached to your child’s teeth. Once installed, the orthodontist will adjust the wires periodically to help pull your child’s teeth into the correct position. Braces are a tried-and-true orthodontic treatment used for decades to help straighten teeth and correct bite problems.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are similar to braces because they’re designed to move teeth gently into place. Clear aligners fit over the teeth. They’re made from clear plastic, so unlike braces, they’re difficult to see. Even up close, clear aligners are so subtle that they’re almost invisible.
Clear aligners are easy to maintain because they can be removed without help from an orthodontist. In recent years, clear aligners have become the preferred product for many orthodontic patients.
Orthodontic Evaluation
Before your child can get orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners, they need an orthodontic evaluation. Bring your child to see the orthodontist at Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry between ages 7 and 9 years old to find out whether they need braces or clear aligners.
Who Needs Orthodontic Services?
Even children who don’t need orthodontic services to correct a misaligned bite may still benefit from orthodontic services to improve the appearance of their teeth and smile. Crooked teeth can leave kids feeling self-conscious. Getting your child orthodontic services when needed can help them maintain healthy teeth and confidence in their smile.
Signs Your Child Needs Orthodontic Care
It isn’t always easy to tell when your child needs orthodontic care, but knowing the warning signs to watch for can help you decide when to get your child evaluated.
- Your child often bites the inside of their mouth when eating.
- Your child has difficulty pronouncing certain words and sounds.
- Your child’s teeth are visibly crooked.
- Your child’s bite is misaligned.
- Your child’s teeth are crowded, with some teeth positioned on top of other teeth.
Your child’s dentist may also have noticed your child could benefit from an orthodontic evaluation. If the dentist has suggested your child should see an orthodontist, schedule an evaluation as early as possible. Catching orthodontic problems in their early stages can help prevent more severe conditions that are harder to correct.
Why Choose Us for Orthodontic Treatment?
Our orthodontic experts have years of experience working with kids of various ages. We care about our patients and want to see them thrive. When you bring your child for an orthodontic evaluation, here’s what you can expect:
- We’ll treat your child with compassion and kindness.
- We’ll offer comprehensive orthodontic treatments to help make your child’s teeth as straight as possible.
- We offer easy scheduling and streamlined orthodontic services so your child’s visits will be fast and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
When should my child see the orthodontist for the first time?
Bring your child to the orthodontist as soon as the dentist has indicated you should, or when your child is between 7 and 11 years old. The earlier you can bring your child to the orthodontist the better.
What are the benefits of orthodontic care?
There can be many benefits of orthodontic care, including:
- Increased comfort while eating
- Improved ability to speak and pronounce certain sounds
- Straighter teeth
- Jaw in proper alignment
Which is better: braces or clear aligners?
Braces and clear aligners can help correct similar problems. Many patients prefer clear aligners because they’re easy to maintain and can be removed for meals. Some patients prefer braces because of their affordability. Talk to your child’s orthodontist to learn which option is right for them.
How are clear aligners maintained?
Clear aligners should be cleaned at least once each day. Remove clear aligners for every meal and drink (besides water). Rinse clear aligners before putting them back in your mouth, and brush your teeth before putting clear aligners back on.
What can my child eat if they have braces?
Braces can be damaged by foods that are crunchy and hard. Nuts, crusty breads, and hard candies are all examples of the kind of food your child should not eat if they have braces. For a more complete list of foods that your child should not eat, talk to your child’s orthodontist.
Do braces hurt?
Braces installation does not usually hurt, but your child may have discomfort for a few days after braces are put on their teeth. Your child may experience similar discomfort following periodic braces adjustments. The orthodontist may suggest over-the-counter pain medication to help your child during this time.
What is the retainer for? How long will my child need to wear a retainer?
When your child is done with braces or clear aligners, wearing a retainer can help their teeth hold their position. The orthodontist will probably suggest that your child wear the retainer for a period when their braces or clear aligner treatment is done.
How long will my child need to wear braces?
Every child is unique, but you can expect your child to have braces for 1.5 years to 3 years.
Does Your Child Need Orthodontic Treatment in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL? Call Today!
If your child needs orthodontic services in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL, call us today to get started with an evaluation and treatment.
