Invest in Your Child’s Future Smile with Orthodontic Screenings at Stonelake Family Dentistry

At Stonelake Family Dentistry, we believe in proactive dental care, especially when it comes to children. Orthodontic screenings serve as an essential step in identifying potential tooth and jaw issues, providing valuable insights into your child’s oral development.

Dr. Pak may observe signs such as crowded baby teeth or misaligned jaw relationships during these screenings. While immediate treatment may not be necessary, this information helps you prepare for potential future corrective care. As permanent teeth emerge, usually around age 6, Dr. Pak continues monitoring their development and collaborates with you to determine if early orthodontic intervention would be beneficial.

While braces are typically associated with teenagers, they can also play a crucial role in the earlier years of some children. Given that permanent teeth are generally larger than baby teeth, braces may be necessary to create the required space gently. This ensures that the teeth align correctly, minimizing the need for more extensive treatment later on.

Issues like a narrow jaw or a significant overbite can be addressed more effectively when guided during a child’s developmental years. Managing jaw growth at this stage can have a profound impact on the long-term outcome, often eliminating the need for surgery in the teen years.

The Typical Journey
For many youngsters, the optimal time for orthodontics is after the baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth have taken their place. This classic scenario often begins in the early teen years, resulting in a beautifully aligned and fully functional set of teeth entering adulthood. While the duration of orthodontic treatment may vary, the average time typically hovers around two years.

Orthodontic treatment offers various methods to address nearly every scenario, but success hinges on patient compliance. Consistent use of elastic bands, attending follow-up appointments for adjustments, and maintaining excellent home care contribute to a positive outcome. This commitment also involves regular preventive visits with our hygienist, reducing the risk of cavities around brackets. At Stonelake Family Dentistry, our team specializes in guiding our orthodontic patients towards a successful outcome—a stunning, healthy smile for life.