PEDIATRIC ORTHODONTIST PARK SLOPE NY

Where Your Child’s Smile Shines Bright

Pediatric orthodontics is invaluable because it not only enhances the aesthetics of a child’s smile but also lays the foundation for a lifetime of optimal oral health, a functional bite, improved confidence, and can prevent the need for more invasive and costly treatments in the future. At Scantlebury Orthodontics, we understand that when it comes to your child’s orthodontic care, a warm and friendly approach is just as important as the expertise we provide.

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Understanding Early Treatment

We often get asked, “When is the best time to start orthodontic treatment for my child?” At Scantlebury Orthodontics, we believe in providing the right treatment at the right time to ensure the greatest results with the least amount of time and expense.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the ideal time for the initial orthodontic evaluation is at the first sign of orthodontic issues, or, at the latest, by the age of 7.

Why age 7?

By the age of 7, your child’s first adult molars have typically erupted, establishing the back bite. This is the perfect time for us to evaluate the front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. It enables us to detect issues such as overbites, openbites, crossbites, or crowding. Early screening increases the chances of achieving a healthy bite and a beautiful smile.

Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters

Early evaluation serves two essential purposes. First, it allows us to detect any potential problems in their infancy, which is crucial for more effective and efficient treatment. Second, early intervention can guide the growth and development of your child’s teeth and jaws, preventing more serious issues later on.

Advantages of Interceptive Treatment

  • Creates space for crowded, erupting teeth
  • Influences jaw growth, reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
  • Preserves space for unerupted teeth, often eliminating the need for permanent tooth extraction
  • Simplifies later treatment with braces, making it smoother and more efficient

Orthodontics Beyond Aesthetics

At Scantlebury Orthodontics, we want parents to understand that orthodontics is about much more than just creating beautiful smiles. It’s about improving bad bites, also known as malocclusions. Malocclusions occur due to misalignment of teeth or jaws, impacting how your child smiles, chews, cleans their teeth, and even how they feel about their smile.

The Importance of Treating Malocclusions

Research from the American Association of Orthodontists reveals that untreated malocclusions can lead to various problems, such as:

  • Crowded Teeth: Increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to challenging cleaning
  • Protruding Teeth: More prone to accidental chipping, leading to potential pain and expenses
  • Crossbites: May cause unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear, impacting long-term oral health
  • Openbites: Can result  in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments, affecting confidence and overall well-being

What Does a Pediatric Orthodontist Do?

A pediatric orthodontist is a specialized dentist who focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of teeth and jaw alignment issues in children and teenagers. Our pediatric orthodontist, Dr. Sophia Scantlebury, can play a crucial role in ensuring a child’s oral health and overall well-being. Here’s what a pediatric orthodontist does:

Early Evaluation

Pediatric orthodontists perform early assessments in kids that help anticipate future dental issues and determine the optimal time for treatment.

Growth Monitoring

Regular monitoring allows them to track a child’s growth and development and make adjustments to treatment plans as needed.

Partial Treatment

Pediatric orthodontists offer partial treatment when necessary, addressing specific dental issues while the child’s teeth and jaws continue to develop.

Interceptive Therapy

When needed, a pediatric orthodontist can provide interceptive therapy, or early intervention, to guide the growth and development of a child’s teeth and jaws.

Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Care

Orthodontic issues can manifest in various ways. Here are some common signs to watch for in your child:

  • Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: Unusual timing in the loss of baby teeth may indicate potential orthodontic concerns.
  • Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If your child experiences pain or discomfort while eating, it could be a sign of alignment issues.
  • Mouth Breathing: Chronic mouth breathing can lead to orthodontic problems that require attention.
  • Jaws Shifting or Clicking: Jaw misalignment can result in shifting or clicking sensations, potentially causing pain.
  • Cheek Biting: Frequent cheek biting may be a sign of bite problems that need correction.
  • Facial Imbalance: Abnormalities in facial appearance, such as uneven lips or chin, may be linked to orthodontic issues.

If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s advisable to schedule an orthodontic consultation. Early detection and treatment can often prevent more serious problems and lead to a healthier smile.

The Initial Appointment

When you bring your child to Scantlebury Orthodontics for their initial orthodontic exam, you can expect a straightforward and informative process. Here’s what you can anticipate:

  • Discussion: Dr. Scantlebury will talk to you about your child’s dental concerns and goals.
  • Evaluation: She will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s oral health and bite.
  • Impressions: X-rays and digital impressions may be taken to assess tooth and jaw positioning.
  • Treatment Plan: Dr. Scantlebury creates a personalized treatment plan according to their assessment.
  • Questions: Feel free to ask any questions or address concerns during this appointment to make sure you’re well informed of the procedure.
  • Next Steps: Dr. Scantlebury will discuss the recommended next steps for your child’s treatment.

The Two-Phase Treatment

At Scantlebury Orthodontics, we understand that each child’s smile journey is unique. For some, a two-phase treatment approach may be recommended to achieve the best results. Here’s what you need to know about Two-Phase treatment:

Phase 1 (Interceptive Treatment)

Phase 1 typically begins around the age of eight or nine.

  • It may involve braces, fixed appliances, removable appliances, or a combination tailored to your child’s needs.
  • This phase lasts approximately 10-14 months and often starts while your child still has baby teeth.
  • The goal is to create a path for the emergence of permanent teeth, addressing early orthodontic concerns.
Phase 2 (Comprehensive Treatment)

After a resting period, Phase 2 begins around the ages of 11-12 during the preteen years.
Phase 2 generally lasts 12-20 months.

  • It includes appliances designed to help your child develop a natural and harmonious smile.

Two-phase treatment allows us to address orthodontic issues in a strategic manner, taking advantage of your child’s growth and development phases. It can lead to more effective and lasting results, ensuring a healthy and confident smile for years to come.

Orthodontic Treatments and Appliances for Children

You might be wondering what appliance your child may need to wear when the pediatric orthodontist Park Slope NY creates a treatment plan for them. Here is an overview of the treatments and appliances available at Scantlebury Orthodontics for children based on their specific cases:

  • Braces: Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually align teeth and correct bite issues. We offer a variety of colorful bands, allowing your child to express their personality.
  • Invisalign® for Teens: Invisalign® offers a discreet alternative to traditional braces. These clear, removable aligners are virtually invisible, making them an excellent choice for self-conscious teenagers.
  • Retainers: After active treatment, retainers help maintain your child’s new smile by preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
  • Space Maintainers: In cases where a baby tooth is lost prematurely, space maintainers help ensure there’s adequate room for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
  • Expanders: Palatal expanders help widen the upper jaw when needed, addressing issues like crowding and crossbites.
  • Headgears: For certain bite problems, headgear may be prescribed to guide jaw growth and tooth movement.
  • Herbst Appliance: This fixed appliance helps correct severe overbites by promoting lower jaw growth.
  • Elastics (Rubber Bands): Elastics are used to improve bite alignment by applying gentle pressure to specific teeth or jaws.
  • Mouthguards: We offer custom-made mouthguards to protect your child’s teeth during sports or other physical activities.
  • Orthodontic Surgery: In rare cases, orthodontic surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, may be recommended to address severe jaw misalignments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pediatric Orthodontics

As parents, you may have questions about pediatric orthodontics and how it can benefit your child. Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers to help you better understand this specialized field:

1. Is orthodontic treatment only about aesthetics?

No, orthodontic treatment goes beyond aesthetics. It also addresses bite problems (malocclusions), making chewing, speaking, and oral hygiene easier. Untreated malocclusions can lead to dental and oral health issues.

2. How long does orthodontic treatment typically take for children?

Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, it can range from several months to a few years.

3. Are orthodontic appointments painful for children?

Orthodontic appointments may cause some discomfort during adjustments, but it is usually mild and short-lived. Modern orthodontic techniques aim to minimize discomfort.

4. How can I prepare my child for orthodontic treatment?

Encourage good oral hygiene habits, emphasize the importance of regular check-ups, and maintain a positive attitude to make your child feel comfortable and confident about their orthodontic journey.

5. Is orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage for children. Check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

6. Where did my child’s orthodontic problems come from?
Most orthodontic problems have a genetic component and are inherited. However, some issues can be “acquired” over time due to habits like thumb or finger sucking, mouth breathing, dental diseases, abnormal swallowing, poor dental hygiene, early or late loss of baby teeth, accidents, or inadequate nutrition.
7. Won’t my child’s teeth straighten out as they grow?

Unfortunately, a child’s teeth will not naturally straighten out as they grow. The available space for permanent front teeth does not increase with age. For most individuals, once the permanent molars come in around age 12, there is limited natural correction of misalignment.

8. Should I wait for our dentist to refer my child to an orthodontist?

No, you don’t need to wait for a referral from your dentist. Parents are often the first to notice if something seems “off” with their child’s teeth or jaws. If you have concerns, it’s advisable to contact a pediatric orthodontist to schedule an evaluation.

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Appointment Today!

Discover the difference in expert care at Scantlebury Orthodontics. Our pediatric orthodontist Park Slope NY, Dr. Scantlebury, is committed to your child’s smile and overall well-being. With a wealth of experience and a gentle approach, we offer a range of treatments to cater to your child’s unique orthodontic needs, from traditional braces to Invisalign®.

Take the first step toward a confident and healthy smile for your child!

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