Children’s Orthodontics in New York City

When Should My Child See a Pediatric Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation occur by age seven – the time when adult teeth are erupting. At Elite Orthodontics, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect issues such as a possible overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. We can tell if your child will benefit from early treatment, as many potential problems may not be visibly apparent until prevention is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.

Signs That Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment

Treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with Dr. Faust if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:

• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Difficulty in chewing or biting food
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Mouth breathing
• Finger or thumb sucking
• Jaws that “pop” when opening & closing
• Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
• Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face

The Benefits of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

Dr. Faust can both straighten your child’s teeth and align their jaw with little to no invasive treatment through our two-phase orthodontic treatment. This treatment works by guiding your child’s growth before their jaw has fully developed, ensuring that your child has a healthy and attractive smile.

Children aged seven and older who have issues such as teeth crowding or a misaligned jaw are candidates for early treatment. As we all know, children grow rapidly, and guiding the alignment of the upper and lower jaws is easier than trying to correct a jaw after it is already grown. Early orthodontic treatment sets a good foundation that provides sufficient room for your child’s permanent teeth.

Additionally, two-phase orthodontic treatment can also prevent later removal of permanent teeth to correct overcrowding and/or surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws.

Give Your Child a Beautiful Smile in Two Phases

During the first phase, certain appliances, which are determined on a case-by-case basis, will be used to assist in developing your child’s jaw size to accommodate his or her permanent teeth and to align the upper and lower jaws.

In the second phase when your child’s permanent teeth are in, wearing braces is typically required for up to two years, followed by retainers to ensure lasting results. When each tooth has an exact location in the mouth that is in line with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth, your child’s teeth will function together correctly and your child will have a healthy, beautiful smile!

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Schedule an Appointment With Our Pediatric Orthodontist in Manhattan & NYC