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Braces For Children

 

Orthodontics for Children

For parents, it’s not easy to know if your son or daughter will need orthodontic treatment, or when is the best time for an initial orthodontic evaluation. While there is no exact age for children to begin treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting your orthodontist around age seven.

By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth as well as mature enough jaw and facial development to allow Dr. Willes to detect and diagnose tooth and jaw problems sooner. Early diagnosis helps him create a plan for any future treatment which will be the most healthy, efficient, economical, and least invasive.

Usually children won’t start treatment this young, but sometimes early intervention is most effective. And knowing what the problems are now allows for the best planning of timing and treatment, for both Dr. Willes and your family.

Early treatment enables an orthodontist to:

  • Correct and guide the growth of your child’s jaw to help the permanent teeth come in straight
  • Regulate the width of the upper and lower arches
  • Create more space for crowded teeth
  • Avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions later in life
  • Correct thumb sucking and help improve minor speech problems

Here are a few things to look for that may mean your child needs to see an orthodontist

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • A hard time chewing or biting food
  • Mouth breathing
  • Finger or thumb sucking
  • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
  • Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
  • Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
  • Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face
  • Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight

Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment now could give your youngster a healthy, beautiful smile for the future.

Our Patients
love us

“As a dental hygienist in Carlsbad for thirteen years, my expectations are higher than most. The results I have seen on patients over the years as well as on my own children are five stars all the way around.
Thank you, Dr. Willes!”
Debbie, Carlsbad
“We have had four children benefit from the care and expertise of Dr. Willes and his staff. The people in the office really care about not just making beautiful smiles, but engaging and understanding their patients.” Jennifer, Oceanside
“Couldn’t ask for a better team. Always prompt and courteous, with great skills and service.” Richard, San Marcos
“Dr. Willes and his staff clearly love what they do. They are knowledgeable, genuine, and professional, and take pride in creating healthy, beautiful smiles.” Colleen, Carlsbad
“I love Dr. Willes and all the staff! I look forward to my regular visits because it’s like seeing family. My teeth are getting so straight, and I can hardly wait to see my forever smile!” Brandon, Vista
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