Can a Pediatric Dentist Perform Orthodontic Procedures for My Child?

pediatric dentist Richmond, TX

Taking a child to the pediatric dentist early in life has many benefits. Parents will be able to know if their child needs orthodontic treatment. Usually, preventative dental care routine from an early age should prevent the need for orthodontic procedures completely. However, genetics, abnormal dental growth, injuries, and other factors beyond the parent’s control can happen. Orthodontic treatment done during the development of the child’s oral cavity is a lot more comfortable, faster, and less expensive than procedures performed during the child’s adolescent years.

Orthodontic treatment is performed for more than just aesthetics. It helps to straighten and balance the alignment of the bite, which makes oral hygiene easier. Good oral hygiene means lower risks of developing tooth decay, cavities, and gingivitis. And if you are wondering if your child’s pediatric dentist can administer orthodontic treatments for the child, then yes.

The benefits of early orthodontic treatment

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists says that treating children with orthodontic issues when they are between ages four and 11 can help avert the occurrence of severe orthodontic issues during their teenage years. Treating children in that age range is the best because the child’s teeth and bones are still forming. Performing orthodontic treatment on children early in life causes less pain or discomfort. The treatment could correct issues such as overbites, ectopic eruptions, uneven spaces between the teeth, and other abnormal dental formations.

Why choose the pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists handle the child’s oral health right from infancy through adolescence. They are uniquely trained and experienced in caring for the child’s teeth, gums, and oral cavities throughout the different phases of childhood.

Children typically start to get their first set of teeth when they clock six months. By the time they hit age six or seven, the old teeth start to give way for the permanent teeth. The pediatric dentist will continually monitor the child’s development to ensure the teeth erupt properly. This means they can easily detect any issue with the child’s bite and recommend appropriate orthodontic treatment to correct the problem.

Children are not always patient and cooperative for dental procedures. However, the pediatric dentist knows how to deal with kids to make them comfortable and willing. The dentist’s office is also often set up in a way that keeps children at ease.

The orthodontic treatment provided by pediatric dentists improves the child’s confidence and makes cleaning the teeth easier. The child also will not have to worry about wearing braces during their teenage or adult years when it could be awkward or embarrassing.

Orthodontic treatments provided by the pediatric dentist

The pediatric dentist can provide custom-made orthodontic devices explicitly designed for the child’s needs. Common options include:

  • Custom space maintainers to preserve the spaces left by a baby tooth lost prematurely
  • Habit devices for preventing bad oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking before they cause damages to the teeth
  • Early expansion appliances to correct crossbites and overbites

Final note

Parents are often advised to take their children to the pediatric dentist early in life to ensure proper development of the child’s teeth. If your child needs orthodontic treatment, the pediatric dentist will be able to make appropriate recommendations based on the child’s condition.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Signs Your Child May Need A Kids Dental Crown

A pediatric dentist can help determine the root cause of an oral health issue and if a patient will benefit from a dental crown. While there are many reasons for getting these restorations, the main goal is always to restore the tooth and enhance its functions. Here are several warning signs that your child may…

First-Time Visit To A Pediatric Dentist: A Parent's Guide

When parents decide to take their child to the dentist for the first time, they often do not know what to expect, but fortunately, a pediatric dentist is a professional who dedicates their attention to treating children, which can help put your mind at ease. That said, knowing what your child (and you!) will go…

How To Help Your Child Care For Their Kids Dental Crowns

Kids dental crowns are a valuable investment in your child's oral health and smile's appearance. Whether they have received crowns to restore damaged teeth or for cosmetic reasons, it is important to properly care for them to ensure they last a long time. Here are some essential tips to help maintain the longevity and aesthetics…

When Fillings Are The Right Cavity Treatment For Kids

Dental fillings are a common cavity treatment for kids, and they work best when decay has created only a small or moderate hole in a tooth. Treating decay at these early stages can prevent the cavity from growing, reducing discomfort and protecting the tooth from further damage. A pediatric dentist can explain whether a filling…

Recent Posts

Signs Your Child May Need A Kids Dental Crown

Signs Your Child May Need A Kids Dental Crown

A pediatric dentist can help determine the root cause of an oral health issue and if a patient will benefit from a dental crown. While there are many reasons for getting these restorations, the main goal is always to restore the tooth and enhance its functions. Here are several warning signs that your child may…

First Time Visit To A Pediatric Dentist: A Parent&#    ;s Guide

First-Time Visit To A Pediatric Dentist: A Parent's Guide

When parents decide to take their child to the dentist for the first time, they often do not know what to expect, but fortunately, a pediatric dentist is a professional who dedicates their attention to treating children, which can help put your mind at ease. That said, knowing what your child (and you!) will go…

¡WE SPEAK ENGLISH y HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL! WELCOME TO ALL