Your child or teen’s 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.
Taking care of teeth 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:
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.
Tooth enamel is made of minerals, and when exposed to strong acid, its mineral content (and strength) can be stripped away. A naturally occurring mineral, fluoride is scientifically proven to strengthen teeth by attracting minerals to the surface of tooth enamel, which will ultimately help replenish lost mineral content. Strong, healthy tooth enamel is key in protecting teeth against cavity causing bacteria. Fluoride treatments are quick and easy and involve simply applying a fluoridated varnish or gel to the teeth.
Dental sealants are another preventive method for protecting teeth from bacteria and decay. Using a disease-resistant, plastic compound, sealants are applied over the pits and grooves of the teeth and quickly hardened with a curing light. This ensures that the biting surfaces of the teeth are more protected against damage and harmful bacteria.
