What Do Orthodontists Do for Kids?

An orthodontist is a kind of dentist who specializes in correcting jaw and teeth misalignments. Orthodontists use braces and other tools to realign a person’s teeth or jaws.

First Orthodontist Visit

Seeing an orthodontist can help a child starting from a young age. A child should have their first orthodontist appointment before age seven. The purpose of this first visit is not to get braces right away, but so the orthodontist can identify if the child may need treatment in the future and determine the best time to start treatment.

At the first orthodontist visit, the orthodontist or technician will take X-rays of the child’s teeth. X-rays show an orthodontist if a child’s facial structure, teeth, and jaws are developing correctly. They also might take an impression of your teeth. This impression helps the orthodontist determine how the teeth should be corrected.

Getting Treatment

Orthodontists benefit kids by straightening their teeth and aligning the jaws for a proper bite. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and make for a nice smile, while a proper bite makes chewing food more comfortable. Most kids get braces between 9 and 14 years old, with treatment lasting 1 to 3 years. During treatment, your child will visit the orthodontist about once a month to have the braces adjusted so they are continually moving the teeth into place.

After Treatment

Once orthodontic treatment is completed and braces are removed, a child will need to see their orthodontist for a few follow-up appointments, to ensure the teeth do not shift. Using a mold of the newly aligned teeth, the orthodontist will provide a retainer to wear to keep the teeth in place.

To learn more about how seeing an orthodontist can benefit your child, call or visit Oasis Kids and Orthodontics!