Orthodontics for kids is a vital part of your child’s oral health. Certain dental issues may occur as their teeth develop, making it more difficult to bite, chew, and speak properly. Orthodontic treatment sets the stage for a beautiful smile and supports proper oral health. It also helps them develop good dental habits for healthy teeth and a gorgeous smile for their entire life.
What Is The Difference Between A Las Vegas Kids’ Dentist And An Orthodontist?
The difference between a Las Vegas kids’ dentist and an orthodontist is their pediatric oral health focus. Your kid’s dentist ensures your child’s teeth are developing correctly. They ensure their teeth are cleaned twice a year, address cavities, and perform other treatments for proper oral health.
A pediatric orthodontist is focused on ensuring your child’s teeth are straight and addresses different developmental issues. They also help resolve underbites and overbites. Together, pediatric dentists and orthodontists help ensure your child has a beautiful smile.
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What To Expect With An Orthodontist For Kids
When you take your child to their first orthodontist visit, this appointment is usually for an initial consultation and evaluation. They will meet with you and your child to discuss their oral health, medical history, and dental history.
During this visit, your orthodontist will:
- Review whether any orthodontic problems need resolving
- Determine if any teeth need to be removed to help correct alignment and spacing issues
- Take X-rays or molds of their teeth, depending on the treatment they require
- Discuss the different options to correct the problem and explain why to get braces
- Develop a care plan and recommended treatment with an anticipated timeline
When Do Kids Typically Need Orthodontics?
Your child typically needs orthodontics when they have various dental issues, including:
- Issues with baby teeth: If your child is losing baby teeth early or taking longer than expected, this can create problems for their permanent teeth
- Problems with biting their cheeks: If your child has issues where they frequently bite their cheeks, it could be an alignment problem
- Difficulty biting or chewing: If your child has problems or experiences discomfort when eating, there is often an underlying orthodontic problem that needs to be addressed
- Shifting or clicking jaw: If your child’s jaw clicks or shifts when speaking or eating, it can cause discomfort and pain. Orthodontic treatment can help ensure the jaw is aligned correctly.
- Overbites and underbites: If your child’s overbite or underbite affects their facial features, seeing an orthodontist to correct this issue can be beneficial
- Overcrowded and crooked teeth: When your child’s permanent teeth are not developing correctly, causing overcrowding, or are becoming crooked, the orthodontist will explain what to expect with braces to correct this issue
How To Choose The Right Orthodontist For Kids
Choosing the right orthodontist for your kid is vital to ensure they receive the treatment and care they need. One of the biggest factors to consider is how they interact with your child by asking yourself these questions:
- Does your child seem comfortable with the orthodontist?
- When your child is scared, do they comfort them and put their fears at ease?
- Do they take the time to carefully explain procedures so your child understands?
- Do they encourage your child when they make progress?
- Do they seem genuinely invested in helping your child?
In addition, ask about their experience and if there are any before-and-after photos you can see. You could also ask your child’s dentist or other parents for recommendations.
How To Prevent Needing Braces
Several different things can be done to help prevent your child from needing kids braces, such as:
- Keep up with their bi-annual dental visits and teeth cleanings
- Encourage proper oral care at home with twice daily brushing and nighttime flossing
- Wean your child from their pacifier and thumbsucking as soon as possible
- Ensure your child eats a healthy, well-balanced diet
- Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist before their seventh birthday
- Start early preventative treatment when it is needed
Schedule An Appointment With A Las Vegas Orthodontist Today
Whether you have dental insurance or are looking for a cash-pay dentist near you, it is easy to find a pediatric dentist and orthodontist in Las Vegas at Absolute Dental. We are a full-service dental office for the entire family. Our pediatric dentists and orthodontists are caring and compassionate and enjoy working with kids of all ages. We would be happy to help your child develop a beautiful smile and healthy teeth.
Sources:
A Quick Guide to Getting Braces. (2023).
What to Expect at the First Orthodontist Appointment. (2023).
When to Take Your Child to the Dentist for the First Time. (2023).