Orthodontic Services

Early orthodontic treatment is sometimes a difficult decision to make as a parent. But a simple screening at age 7 will enable our doctors to recognize any emerging growth and development problems. Although children at that age may not be ready for orthodontic treatment, it is important to begin monitoring their dental development and physical growth patterns.

With early visits to an orthodontics office, a highly trained doctor can evaluate growth of the jaw, loss of baby teeth, eruption of adult teeth and the effect of habits such as thumbsucking, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing. As a result of these checkups, our San Diego, CA orthodontist can keep potential problems at bay, reduce expense and lower the duration of early orthodontic treatments.

When treatment is necessary in children, the orthodontist can work to improve the relationship of upper and lower jaws. Early treatment can also improve facial appearance and self-esteem, gain space for permanent teeth, reduce the need for tooth extractions, correct bad habits and regulate normal breathing or speech problems. In sum, early treatment can simplify later treatment if it becomes necessary.

Types of appliances that may be recommended for children include rubber bands to improve upper and lower jaw alignment, headgear for patients with an over or under bite, partial expander used to widen the upper jaw, retainers to hold teeth in a new position after they have been straightened, spacers to push teeth apart so that orthodontic bands may be placed and lastly children’s braces to straighten and correct many types of malocclusions.

Our orthodontic specialists in San Diego will work with you and your child to create a program that will produce results that you will both be happy with. Call today and speak with one of our San Diego, CA braces specialists.