Orthodontics For Kids And Teens

Orthodontics for teenagers and kids has changed rapidly in the last 20 years. Now, we have more options than ever before to keep your kids happy and comfortable on their orthodontic journeys.

Is Getting An Early Orthodontic Consult Really That Important For Kids?

The American Academy of Orthodontics strongly recommends that parents have their kids seen by an orthodontist at age 7.

Why so soon? Early examination and possible treatment can head off more intense — and expensive — orthodontic treatment later. It can also help prevent speech impediments and breathing issues your child may develop from bad teeth.

By age 7,  a child’s adult molars begin to emerge, which can cause crowding and archway issues if they do not come in correctly.

If orthodontic, alignment, and bite issues are detected early, then they can be treated with Phase I and II orthodontic treatment, which can save time and money in the long run.

- Orthodontics & Braces For Kids | Topeka Orthodontist - WH Orthodontics

Two-Phase Orthodontics: Why Would My Child Need It?

Two-phase orthodontic care is a way to prevent more serious — and more expensive — orthodontic problems later. 

Two-phase orthodontic care allows us to treat or prevent orthodontic issues early so your child can be treated more quickly and easily later. Phase I begins while the permanent teeth are still erupting. Phase I is designed to make your child’s orthodontic issues more manageable. 

Phase II comes later when most or all of the permanent teeth are in. By that time, it should just be a matter of straightening the teeth and bite a little to create the smile they want.

Two-phase treatment helps us address problems before they become big problems that might keep your child in braces for years or may require surgery.

Convenient Orthodontic Options For Kids And Teens

These aren’t the braces your parents wore at your age!

Orthodontic technology has come a long way in the past few decades. Orthodontic care is much more comfortable, convenient, and faster than ever before. In fact, lots of our cases are finished in close to 18 months, not the 24-48 months today’s adults wore braces as children.

We realize that styles and tastes have changed as well. That’s why we offer options like Invisalign and Invisalign Teen and clear braces.

- Orthodontics & Braces For Kids | Topeka Orthodontist - WH Orthodontics

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Common Questions About Orthodontics For Kids

Does An Evaluation Cost Money?

No! Of course not!

Our consultations are always free. We just want to get to know you and know what issues you or your child might be facing. We want you to know as much as possible about your case.

For us, your initial consultation is about building a relationship with you and your child!

What If My Kid Doesn't Need Phase 1 Treatment?

Not every child needs Phase One Orthodontic care, but they still need an evaluation.

Phase One consultations are complimentary. Monitoring your child’s growth and development is vital to ensure they have good oral health. It’s our job to be truthful and honest with you about how to proceed. Schedule a free consultation with us to learn more!

What Does My Child's First Visit Look Like?

You can read more about what your child’s first visit looks like by checking out this page.

By coming in for a consultation, your Topeka, KS orthodontist can identify any current or developing alignment concerns and inform you about possible treatment options.

Your orthodontist will help you decide on what treatment to have, if any, based on his recommendations and your child’s preferences. Our doctors will be there for you and your child every step of the way until the treatment is complete.

What Are Some Common Orthodontic Problems Kids Have?

Most people develop an orthodontic problem, called a malocclusion or “bad bite,” in the course of their lifetime. Without treatment, these conditions can cause uneven tooth wear, increase vulnerability to dental decay, cause jaw problems, and create a host of other issues. Most malocclusions can be grouped into a set of common orthodontic problems, all of which we can correct at our office through orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign.

Crowding

The most common reason for braces, crowding occurs when there isn’t enough room in the dental arch to accommodate the teeth. This causes the teeth to come in crooked, making it difficult to clean the teeth properly and leaving them vulnerable to dental decay.

Underbite

Underbite occurs when the lower jaw sits in front of the upper jaw, usually due to a misaligned jaw. This can cause tooth wear and persistent jaw issues.

Overbite

The opposite of underbite, this occurs when the lower jaw sits too far behind the upper jaw. In extreme cases, it may cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.

Crossbite

This occurs when the jaw is misaligned, causing the rear upper teeth to sit inside of the lower teeth. Untreated, this can create uneven tooth wear as well as facial asymmetry.

Spacing

Spacing is the opposite of crowding, occurring when there is too much room in the dental arch for the teeth. This leaves gaps between the teeth, and while these may be a purely cosmetic issue, spacing can sometimes cause functional problems as well.

Open Bite

This condition occurs when the upper and lower front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap or opening in the teeth. It’s usually caused by childhood habits like prolonged thumb sucking, although it may develop as a growth abnormality.