Dr. Jafari provides children’s orthodontics to help your child grow and develop properly. Early orthodontic treatment can often prevent the need for more extensive care in the future, as well as promote a healthier, more beautiful smile at an earlier age. Call Inova Dental Clinic at 703-433-1400 today to make your child’s appointment with our dentist and learn more about children’s orthodontics in Sterling, Virginia.

Initial Orthodontic Evaluation

Children’s orthodontics can play a critical role in setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, straight teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment allows for the detection of potential issues with jaw alignment, bite or tooth eruption. By identifying these concerns early, treatment can be more effective and less invasive.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment, often referred to as interceptive orthodontics, focuses on guiding the growth of your child’s teeth and jaws. This can prevent more complex issues down the road, saving both time and money. Early intervention can be especially beneficial for children whose teeth are overcrowded, for those who have problems with their bite or for those with teeth that are erupting abnormally. The goal of early treatment is not just to straighten teeth but to address the overall function and structure of the mouth. Orthodontic treatment in children can include the use of both fixed appliances, such as braces and removable appliances, depending on the specific needs of your child.

Benefits of Children’s Orthodontics

Benefits of early treatment may include creating space for crowded teeth, reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth and improving facial symmetry by guiding jaw growth. Early treatment can also minimize the need for permanent tooth extractions and reduce the length of time that future orthodontic treatment may be required.

Schedule an Appointment

At our office, we take the time to assess your child’s unique needs and develop a tailored treatment plan. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best time to start treatment, ensuring your child’s smile grows as healthily and beautifully as possible. Contact us today to schedule your child’s orthodontic evaluation and learn more about how early treatment can benefit your child’s dental health.

FAQ Asked Questions About Children’s Orthodontics

When should my child receive an orthodontic screening?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists®, children should receive their first orthodontic screening by the age of 7. At this age, the jaws and teeth are still developing, making it easier to identify and correct any early problems. Starting early can prevent the need for more invasive treatments later and help guide your child’s teeth and jaw growth effectively.

Why does early orthodontic treatment matter?

Early orthodontic treatment, or interceptive orthodontics, addresses problems while your child’s jaw and teeth are still developing. This proactive approach allows our dentist to correct bite issues, overcrowding and abnormal teeth eruption before they worsen. Early intervention can prevent future complications, reduce the need for surgery and shorten the time your child will need to spend in braces later on.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?

The benefits of early orthodontic treatment include correcting alignment issues, creating space for overcrowded teeth and improving facial symmetry. It can also reduce the risk of trauma to protruding teeth, guide proper jaw growth and minimize the need for permanent tooth extraction. Addressing these issues early can save time and reduce the overall cost of treatment.

What types of treatment are involved in children’s orthodontics?

Children’s orthodontics can involve a variety of treatments, including removable appliances, braces, spacers and retainers. The type of treatment your child needs will depend on their specific dental issues. Early treatment typically focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for erupting teeth and correcting bite problems before they become more severe.

How long does early treatment typically take to complete?

The duration of early orthodontic treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the issues being addressed. On average, early treatment may take 12 to 18 months to complete. However, the exact timeline will depend on your child’s unique needs and how well their teeth and jaw respond to the treatment plan.