Your Child’s Initial Orthodontic Exam
The initial orthodontic exam is at NO cost to you. Our friendly treatment coordinator will first review your child’s health history and take a few measurements of their teeth. Afterwards, one of our awesome orthodontists will make a clinical examination of their teeth and jaw and answer any concerns you may have. If your child is ready to proceed with orthodontic treatment, we will discuss the next steps with you. At times, no immediate treatment is needed. In this case, your child will be part of our Future Faces with Braces Club, which is an observation program where we will continue to monitor closely their growth and development. This is usually done on a 6 to 12 month basis.
Contact Us →
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years depending on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time until case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient’s diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment.
Office Visits:
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
How Is An Orthodontist Different Than A Dentist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
How Do You Know When Braces Are Needed?
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- A hard time chewing or biting food
- Mouth breathing
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
- Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
- Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
- Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face
Treatment Options:
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between 12 and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.
What If I Put Off Treatment?
Putting off treatment can result in a need for more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your smile. Early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.
Voted Best In Dallas
We’re proud to be rated the #1 Dentist in Dallas since 2013! It’s an honor to know the Dallas community trusts us for quality dental and orthodontic care! Thank you!
