At ARCH Orthodontics, we truly care about keeping kids healthy. We want every child to enjoy all the benefits of life that comes with having a smile that’s straight and in great shape. Because February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, we’d like to discuss how we use dentofacial orthopedics at all of our ARCH Orthodontics locations throughout the greater Boston area.
We always recommend (along with the American Association of Orthodontists) that children visit ARCH Orthodontics for an evaluation by the time they are seven years old. Why? Because most children will have their permanent molars and incisors by this time, and we are more can accurately tell whether things such as dental crossbites or teeth crowding could possibly become an issue in the future.
Our orthodontists are highly-skilled at using dentofacial orthopedics to help keep kids’ teeth healthy. Learn more about how it’s used and why it’s important:
Q: What is dentofacial orthopedics?
A: ARCH orthodontists can direct and guide facial bone growth to create harmony and balance between the top and bottom jaws. The benefits? Better tooth movement and alignment. This type of treatment is most effective when kids are younger, at time when bones are more responsive to gently pressured movement of the teeth and jaw.
Q: Why do we use this type of treatment?
A: We love helping patients of all ages, but we especially love treating kids because the earlier we start orthodontic care — the better, more long-lasting results we can expect to achieve. Because we’re guiding the growth of children’s jaws, we are able to successfully build a strong foundation for their incoming permanent teeth.
Q: What are some of the benefits of using dentofacial orthopedics?
A: We use this specific type of treatment because it allows for the correct spacing of permanent teeth, and potentially eliminates the need for extractions when kids grow older. ARCH orthodontists are also able to address airway issues, poor facial development, sleep apnea issues, and more. Dentofacial orthopedics can also be greatly effective at correcting and controlling breathing problems or respiratory abnormalities. And guess what else? This treatment can also be a huge help in reducing the likelihood of impacted teeth, correct thumb-sucking behavior, and address abnormal swallowing or speech problems. Corrective dentofacial care often involves expanders and other oral appliances designed to create balance in the facial bones and jaw structure. Braces may also be part of the treatment plan.
We understand that maintaining your child’s dental health is sometimes easier said than done. ARCH Orthodontics is always here to help with any questions or concerns you may have about early childhood development and how it relates to oral (and even overall) health. Please don’t hesitate to call one of our nine convenient locations throughout the Boston area! We’re always happy to help.
Visit our Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Hyannis, Hyde Park, Orleans, Randolph, Stoughton and Westwood orthodontic offices.
