Children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the time they reach seven. According to the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association, addressing orthodontic problems while your child is still growing can shorten and simplify treatment. Dr. Martirosyan, our Glendale kids braces dentist, offers orthodontic treatments for kids.
Although children should be evaluated by the time they are seven, treatment will usually begin between nine and 14. Braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that aligns the teeth and the upper and lower jaw. The braces consist of brackets, wires and bands to anchor the wires. To determine if your child is a candidate for braces, Dr. Martirosyan, our expert in kids braces in Glendale, will examine your child’s teeth and bone structure. Dental X-rays or other images may be taken as well as dental impressions to plan the treatment process.
Glendale Kids Braces
The braces are applied at a later visit. Each bracket is cemented to individual teeth using a special dental bonding material. The wires are anchored by bands, and they are periodically adjusted. Initially, braces can be uncomfortable when first applied and after adjustments. This is due to the changes in the periodontal tissues and bone that are necessary to allow teeth to move and then later to hold teeth into their new positions. Dr. Martirosyan, our Glendale kids braces dentist, can offer suggestions on ways to reduce any discomfort that occurs. A soft diet can be helpful for a day or two, and orthodontic wax can be applied to brackets to reduce any soft tissue irritation.
For the best results, your child will need to maintain excellent dental hygiene. This means brushing after every meal, limiting snacking, and flossing daily. All plaque and food debris should be thoroughly removed from teeth and braces to reduce the risk of dental problems during treatment.
Most kids will wear their braces from 18 to 36 months. After the braces come off, Dr. Martirosyan, our expert in kids braces in Glendale, will fit your child for a retainer. The retainer will hold teeth in their proper position. Call us today to find out more or to schedule your child’s consultation with Dr. Martirosyan, our pediatric dentist in Glendale.