Children's Orthodontics

What are children’s orthodontics?

Orthodontics are appliances that straighten teeth, correct bite issues, or both. If your child has an orthodontic abnormality, such as an overbite, Dr. Harper may recommend children’s orthodontics to ensure their teeth grow in proper alignment. 

Early intervention ensures your child can chew and speak comfortably. Children’s orthodontics can also help prevent tooth decay (cavities), and chipped or fractured teeth.

What are the different types of children’s orthodontics?

Dr. Harper offers multiple types of children’s orthodontics, including:

Traditional braces

Traditional braces are the gold standard in orthodontics for children. Metal brackets, archwires, and elastics work together to shift your child’s teeth into a comfortable and aligned position. Traditional braces are affordable treatment options that offer predictable results. Your child can also swap their elastic bands for fun colors at their tightening appointments.

Ceramic braces

Made with tooth-colored materials, ceramic braces are ideal for children who are self-conscious about wearing braces. They shift crooked teeth into alignment just like traditional braces, but they are more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic brackets are larger than their metal counterparts. These braces also take longer to straighten teeth and are more vulnerable to stains.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces don’t require elastics, so they’re more discreet than traditional or ceramic braces. With sliding mechanisms to pull your child’s teeth into position, self-ligating braces also have smaller brackets. The smaller profile makes self-ligating braces easier to clean. 

Dr. Harper offers both SPEED and Damon™ self-ligating braces at the office. While both systems can correct orthodontic abnormalities, Damon braces are available in transparent materials.

Phase 1 orthodontics

Phase 1 orthodontics treats children ages six through nine. Dr. Harper is a conservative orthodontist and only recommends phase 1 orthodontics when your child’s orthodontic abnormalities interfere with their jaw and tooth development. Braces, specialized retainers, expanders, and space maintainers are a few different types of phase 1 orthodontics.

How do I know if my child needs orthodontics?

At Harper Orthodontics, Dr. Harper offers complimentary orthodontic consultations. During your child’s consultation, he can assess their bite and tooth health. He also takes digital X-rays to view your child’s underlying tooth structures.

At the initial visit, Dr. Harper can recommend the appropriate type of children’s orthodontics for your family’s lifestyle and budget.

To learn more about children’s orthodontics, call Harper Orthodontics or schedule an appointment online today.