How Can I Prevent My Kids Needing Braces?
Orthodontics as a whole has undergone some tremendous technological upgrades, the fact remains that few teens would want to be caught dead in braces. Today, 50% of teens say that braces make them less likely to smile, and more likely to be viewed as a social outcast. However, Shullman Orthodontics has stylish and cost effective alternatives to braces, that even your kids will get behind. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you will be able to prevent your children from having braces.
One way to prevent your child from needing braces is to ensure that there are no problems in your child’s mouth that could eventually grow bigger if unchecked. Visiting an orthodontist at an early age will help predict complications that could arise in the future. At Shullman Orthodontics, we offer complimentary consultations and use the latest technology available to ensure a proper diagnosis of your child’s dental needs.
At Shullman Orthodontics we will begin your child’s treatment program by taking a 3D digital scan of his or her mouth, negating the need for those gooey impressions that you might remember as a child. Getting rid of the pink goo is only one of the ways that orthodontics has improved over the years! Utilizing Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), we can identify problems such as congenital defects and mouth trauma, as well as intercept poor habits before they cause permanent damage to your child’s mouth. This 8.9 second scan replaces three scans that would normally take place under traditional technology. Along with the reduced radiation in each CBCT scan, your child is exposed to a mere fraction of the radiation that they would normally face when submitted to these procedures in other offices.
A preliminary scan can help us determine what preventive actions are needed, to help avoid the need for braces in the future. Children will benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontic treatment by utilizing appliances that direct the growth relationship of the upper and lower jaws. By providing adequate room for the eruption of all permanent teeth, a good foundation can be established while your child grows.
Straightening teeth without braces
The most popular option is Invisalign. Instead of using brackets and wires to move your teeth, a series of aligners (plastic trays) – similar to a retainer are used. First, a mold is created, then a 3D model of your teeth is designed to ensure an exact fit. Under the direction of your orthodontist, your smile is designed by virtually moving your teeth on a computer.
Through advanced digital images created by an iTero scanner we are able to produce a digital impression – a highly accurate, digital 3D image of the individual characteristics of your teen’s tooth surfaces and gum tissue without the putty-filled impression tray that makes you gag. The aligners can be removed by the patient at any time; therefore, there is little need for change in your child’s lifestyle. Your teen can eat any food, drink any beverage, and care for their teeth in the same way as he/she did before their Invisalign Teen treatment started. What makes Invisalign most popular is they are clear; it is nearly impossible for anyone to know they are straightening their teeth!
What if braces are unavoidable?
In certain instances, braces may be the only solution available. In this case, you can take advantage of the upgrades in modern technology to make your child’s transition as comfortable as possible.
Your child does not have to be limited to having gray brackets on his or her teeth. Our braces color planner allows your child to choose an exciting color that matches with current styles and, coordinate with special events or holidays. Since the colors can be changed out regularly, they have the freedom to choose a different color for any occasion. 75% of kids who wear braces today will choose to wear colors on their braces for fun.
Lingual braces, that attach to the back of the teeth instead of the front, are also a great choice if braces are unavoidable. No one at school will see the brackets, allowing your child to achieve a great smile without being referred to as “metal mouth”.
Is there an Orthodontist Near Me Who Can Help?
The most trusted orthodontist in Wellington, for braces and other tooth straightening alternatives, is Shullman Orthodontics. We provide flexible payment options and work with many dental insurance plans to make sure that your child gets the treatment they need regardless of price.
60% of kids believe that a great smile is essential to great self-esteem. Let us help improve your child’s self-confidence and help provide them with a brighter future. We look forward to scheduling your child’s evaluation getting your child on their way to achieving the smile they deserve – a healthy and beautiful one!
