Orthodontics
Pediatric Dentistry located in Magnolia, TX
Orthodontic Treatment In Magnolia, 77355
Orthodontics helps create ideal smiles. Treatments are available through the care of Dr. Henna Abbasi, DDS, of Stagecoach Children’s Dental Center. For many families in and around Magnolia, Texas, early orthodontic treatment reduces the need for more in-depth orthodontic care later in life. Book a visit for your child today using the online scheduling page, or call during normal business hours.
- Correcting crooked or misaligned teeth
- Improving bite function and jaw alignment
- Enhancing facial appearance and self-confidence
- Preventing dental problems like decay and gum disease
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is about straightening teeth and fixing how they bite. When teeth are crooked or crowded, orthodontic treatment helps make them fit together nicely. Using different tools, orthodontists slowly move teeth to make them straight.
Since most people don’t have perfectly straight teeth, almost everyone can benefit from seeing an orthodontist. It’s a good idea for kids to see one by age 7. It’s easier to fix teeth when you’re younger because your mouth is still growing and their teeth can be moved more easily.
Types Of Braces
The most common type of orthodontic appliance is dental braces. These days, braces are a lot different from what they were like ten or twenty years ago. People wearing braces don’t have to deal with a mouth full of metal anymore, and many find them comfortable.
Traditional Braces: These are the most common type of braces, consisting of metal brackets and wires that gradually straighten your teeth. They allow for colorful bands to be added for a personalized touch.
Ceramic Braces: Similar to traditional braces, ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets, making them less noticeable. They are preferred by some for their cosmetic appeal.
Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are attached to the back of your teeth, making them practically invisible from the front. They are a discreet option for those who want to straighten their teeth without visible braces.
Mini Braces: These braces are smaller than traditional braces but just as effective. They are preferred by some for their smaller size and more discreet appearance.
Removable Braces/Aligners: These clear plastic trays, such as Invisalign® or ClearCorrect, are custom-made to fit your teeth. They are removable for eating and brushing, offering a more convenient option for some people.
How To Care For Your Child's Orthodontic Appliance
Brushing: Encourage your child to brush their teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing: Teach your child how to floss between their teeth and around their braces or other appliances to remove trapped food and plaque.
Diet: Advise your child to avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods that can damage their appliance or cause cavities. Encourage them to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods.
Regular check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and orthodontic appointments to monitor your child’s progress and ensure their appliance is functioning correctly.
Mouthguards: If your child plays sports, consider providing them with a mouthguard to protect their teeth and appliances from injury.
Emergency care: In case of a loose wire, broken bracket, or other orthodontic emergency, contact your child’s orthodontist for guidance and assistance.
FAQs About Orthodontic Treatment For Kids
Receiving orthodontic treatment as a child involves services that begin while some of their baby teeth are still in place. Also called interceptive care, these treatments can address developing issues that can have a detrimental effect on a child’s teeth alignment.
Addressing these issues as early as possible helps your child’s teeth come in straighter. By the time they reach their teenage years, alignment problems are minimal and can be treated through a simple course of braces or aligners.
Misaligned teeth are more challenging to keep clean, increasing a child’s risk of dental decay. Early treatment can help straighten teeth and reduce the risk of cavities. Addressing alignment problems early can also reduce the total cost of orthodontic services.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, parents should bring kids in for an early orthodontic assessment before the age of 7, or as soon as an alignment issue becomes apparent. If Dr. Coe finds evidence of alignment concerns during dental exams, he might advise parents to book an orthodontic consultation.
Several possible outcomes can come from an early orthodontic exam. Your practitioner may simply let you know that there’s no need for any form of treatment at that time. Or they might see signs of future alignment issues and emphasize the need for routine dental exams.
Another potential outcome is a recommendation for early orthodontic treatments. Options include removable or fixed dental appliances or tooth extraction. You’ll receive all the details you need to make an informed decision about your child’s care.
Once all permanent teeth have completely emerged, alignment issues are best treated through braces or aligners. Traditional metal braces work by delivering gentle pressure to slowly shift teeth into optimal positioning.
Clear aligner trays can also be effective in shifting teeth into alignment. These trays are removable, which simplifies dental hygiene routines and allows teens to achieve a straighter smile without a gleaming metallic grin.
Stagecoach Children’s Dental Center offers orthodontic care right in the office, using a highly skilled orthodontic partner. When you’re ready to explore options, call or click to set up an appointment.
