Children's Orthodontics Specialist
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Schwartz Orthodontics
Robert Schwartz, DDS, MS
Orthodontist located in Algonquin, IL
When most people imagine braces, they picture teenagers. The truth is, many children can also benefit from orthodontics. At Schwartz Orthodontics in Algonquin, Illinois, Robert Schwartz, DDS, MS, provides children’s orthodontics to correct a variety of orthodontic issues. Early intervention with orthodontics can ensure that your child’s teeth erupt as they should. To schedule an appointment, call Schwartz Orthodontics today.
Children's Orthodontics Q&A
What are children’s orthodontics?
Children’s orthodontics are interventional treatments that Dr. Schwartz places when your child still has baby teeth.
Normally, orthodontists wait until your child loses all their baby teeth to place braces. However, if their teeth and jaw are not developing as they should, children’s orthodontics can intercept these problems and prevent them from evolving into major concerns.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have an orthodontic screening by age seven to identify early signs of malocclusion.
With an early diagnosis, children’s orthodontics can help guide your child’s teeth into alignment, preserve space for new permanent teeth, and reduce the risk of fractured teeth.
What can children’s orthodontics do for my child?
Children’s orthodontics can intercept many common orthodontic issues in adolescents who still have baby teeth, such as:
- Protruding teeth
- Overcrowding
- Speech problems
- Abnormal swallowing
- Severe overbite or underbite
- Impacted permanent teeth
- Thumb-sucking
In many cases, children’s orthodontics can prevent the need for tooth extractions in the future once your child’s permanent teeth erupt.
What are the different types of children’s orthodontics?
Depending on your child’s tooth and jaw development, they may benefit from several early orthodontic treatments, including:
Partial braces
Partial braces only treat some of your child’s teeth. Some partial braces only cover a few of your child’s front teeth, while others only treat one arch.
Palatal expanders
A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance that fits in the roof of your child’s mouth and slowly pushes the teeth outward. The goal is to expand your child’s upper arch to make room for new permanent teeth.
Retainer
A retainer is a fixed or removable appliance that holds your child’s teeth in the correct position after braces. Retainers prevent teeth from moving out of place after treatment.
Do all children need orthodontics?
Not all children with poor eruption patterns and malocclusion need orthodontics. That’s why Dr. Schwartz offers the Orthodontic Supervisory Program. The program allows Dr. Schwartz to monitor your child’s tooth development and see whether their orthodontic concerns are improving or worsening with age.
Extracting or losing baby teeth can minimize the risk of needing early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Schwartz typically observes your child’s progress every 6-8 months to determine the best time to start treatment.
To learn more about children’s orthodontics call Schwartz Orthodontics today.
