Orthodontics
for Kids
Braces for Kids
A lifetime of confident smiles begins here. With interceptive orthodontics, we detect, treat and prevent issues before they progress to a severe state.
The early orthodontic treatment experience
Orthodontic treatment is a major milestone in your little one’s life. We do everything we can to help your child create a positive association with us, and make your visits the best part of their day.
We take having fun very seriously here! With contests and games, iPads and a coffee bar, our goal is to create a relaxed yet entertaining space for your little one, with a convenient, premium experience for you.
When is the best age to get braces or clear aligners?
The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7.
Age 7 sounds young, we know, but this doesn’t mean that orthodontic treatment will begin at this age. Dr. Lu is your highly-experienced children’s orthodontist in Alexandria, here to listen to your concerns and help you choose the right path for your child.
Not every child needs early orthodontics, but those who do will benefit for a lifetime.
Is early orthodontic treatment necessary?
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about ‘straightening teeth’. It’s about intercepting problematic conditions before they worsen, preventing discomfort or difficulties associated with untreated conditions, and establishing a healthy foundation for a beautiful set of permanent teeth.
The goal of early treatment is to develop the jaws to allow for ideal dental development. By supporting proper growth of the jaw and correcting certain bite issues early on, we can eliminate the need for more complex, lengthy forms of treatment (such as jaw surgery) in the future.
Does my little one need treatment?
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, we encourage you to book a complimentary consultation with us!
An early assessment of your child’s growth gives you the peace of mind that your child is thriving.
- Persistent mouth-breathing
- Thumbsucking or tongue-thrusting habits
- Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth
- Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth
- Jaw pain or facial pain
- Jaw shifting, popping or clicking
- Difficulty or pain when chewing or biting
- Inability to chew food properly
- Digestive issues caused by improper chewing
- Lack of self esteem or confidence when smiling
Two-phase orthodontic treatment
Early orthodontic treatment is best separated into two phases, designed to work alongside the natural development of the teeth and jaw bones.
What is Phase 1 treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically completed between the ages of 7 and 10 and is aimed to prepare the mouth for permanent teeth to emerge in a healthy alignment with a sufficient amount of space.
During this phase, your child may be treated with a palatal expander appliance, or another appliance, to widen the upper jaw and create enough room for permanent teeth to grow.
What is Phase 2 treatment?
This phase generally begins in the early teen years, when all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 2 treatment focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws to create a harmonious appearance. During this phase, a full treatment of braces is often completed.
Every child develops at a different rate, and your child’s treatment plan will be 100% personalized to his or her needs. At your first visit, we’ll give you all of the information you need to make the right choice for your little one!
