Orthodontics for Kids and Teens

A beautiful smile can go a long way

Your kid or teens smile and good dental health can make all the difference in their self-confidence and wellbeing. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, good orthodontic care can improve overall oral health and function for the long term.

Benefits and Warning Signs

Taking care of teeth at home is easier and more effective when teeth are properly aligned. This reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease which, if left untreated, can eventually lead to more serious overall health issues. Orthodontic care also provides a more solid foundation for biting and chewing. When an improper bite is not corrected, speech and/or chewing difficulties can occur, including increased wear on tooth enamel and jaw problems.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children first visit the orthodontist by age seven, but for kids with jaw-growth or tooth problems, the first visit may need to be as early as age five or six. Even if treatment does not begin at this time, it’s beneficial to start making a plan. Your child may need an orthodontic exam if any of the following are present:

Difficulty chewing or biting
Grinding of teeth, especially at night
Mouth breathing
Finger sucking or other oral habits
Crowding, misplaced or blocked teeth
Jaw shifting or clicking

Schedule a Consultation

At Dental Depot, we look forward to caring for our patients throughout every stage of their lives – and when the need for orthodontics arises, we can easily accommodate those services right along with routine care and cleanings. In addition to traditional braces, we also offer silver Damon brackets, and more discreet options, including clear Damon brackets and Invisalign, which are clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move teeth into position based on the patient’s customized treatment plan. Your Dental Depot Orthodontics team is happy to provide you with a complimentary consultation to assess your child’s specific needs, discuss with you and your child the aspects of orthodontic care and the benefits of each option, and to make a plan together for the best course of action.

View our Orthodontic FAQ page here for more information.