You want nothing but the best for your child, and a healthy smile can definitely be on that list. In addition to giving you an attractive look, it will benefit you in the future because it will lead to better dental health, easier speaking, and correct jaw growth.

Do you think your child might need braces? Well, many parents are confused with similar questions regarding their child's oral health. It is important for you to know that today, orthodontic treatment is more comfortable and beneficial than ever before.

Central Coast Orthodontics will make sure that the children from Santa Maria and Orcutt enjoy great and healthy smiles.

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

Some parents tend to think that their children should be taken to an orthodontist only after the full emergence of permanent teeth. But in reality, dentists advise taking your kids for an initial check-up to an orthodontist when they are about 7 years old.

At this time, your child will most probably have both primary and permanent teeth. Thus, the dentist will be able to evaluate the problems that may arise during their development.

It is important to know that such an assessment will not necessarily lead to immediate orthodontic intervention. Often, we only control the process of development and choose the right time for starting treatment.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

Some problems related to orthodontics can easily be identified, while others may not be so clear to notice. Thus, having consultations on a regular basis may prove to be very useful.

If your child experiences such problems as:

• Crowding and overlapping of teeth
• Space between the teeth
• Problems while eating or biting
• Excessive forward growth of teeth
• Early or delayed tooth shedding
• Breathing with the mouth open
• Thumb sucking
• Movement, clicking, or unusual sounds from the jawbone
• Overbites, underbites, or cross bites
• Improper teeth alignment while closing the mouth

you should consider having an orthodontic consultation.

Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Matters

In certain cases, fixing orthodontic issues while children are young may help avoid future complications. Since a child's jaw is still growing, an orthodontist may be able to affect the jaw's development more easily than once the jaw has developed completely.

Orthodontics performed while the child is still young could potentially:

• Make space for new permanent teeth
• Alleviate overcrowding issues
• Align the jaw bones
• Correct any negative oral behaviors
• Prevent tooth impaction issues
• Minimize future tooth removal
• Simplify orthodontic treatment in the long run

Types of Braces for Kids

There is no such thing as an identical smile. Hence, no orthodontic treatment can have a one-size-fits-all approach.

Based on the unique needs of your child, some of the orthodontic treatment methods we recommend include:

Metal Braces

These have been a dependable way of treating numerous orthodontic problems since ages gone by. In today's context, these are smaller and smoother than ever.

Ceramic Braces

This alternative will prove to be particularly useful for older kids who do not like their orthodontic treatment to show too much.

Specialized Orthodontic Appliances

Children who are younger in age might require appliances for guiding proper jaw development. We will explain all your options during the consultation process.

How Long Will A Child Wear Braces?

A frequent question asked by parents concerns the amount of time needed for treatment. This varies according to several different criteria such as the severity of the orthodontic problem, your child's physical development, and adherence to the orthodontic regimen.

The majority of children usually have braces fitted for a period of 12-24 months. But every patient is different. Luckily, sticking to appointments and good dental hygiene practices makes things a lot easier.

How to Make Life With Braces a Breeze

Often, children are concerned that braces may affect their daily routine such as going to school, engaging in physical activity, or socializing with friends. Luckily, braces adjustment does not take long.

In reality, most children feel quite at ease wearing braces in only a few days' time.

Here is a list of suggestions for children getting braces:

• Brushing and flossing regularly
• Keeping up with all orthodontist appointments
• Avoiding hard and sticky food
• Using an appliance when prescribed
• Wearing a mouth guard while playing sports

Such simple measures can greatly facilitate the entire process of treatment.

Why Families in Orcutt Choose Central Coast Orthodontics

Selecting an orthodontist is not something to be taken lightly. One must look for an experienced team who have access to cutting-edge equipment and show compassion in their work.

At Central Coast Orthodontics, we make the effort to listen to the unique concerns of your child and address any questions you might have at each stage of the process, from the first appointment to your last visit for a retainer.

We do not simply aim to align teeth, but rather to create smiles for life in every single child.

Schedule Your Child's Consultation Today

Have you experienced any symptoms that point to teeth crowding, bite problems, or orthodontic problems? This is your chance to act! Just have your child undergo an examination to see if he/she requires immediate intervention or monitoring. Get in touch with Central Coast Orthodontics right away and find out how your child can benefit from braces.