Orthodontist in Queens, NY For All Ages

Orthodontics for Children

Orthodontics for children is all about helping your little ones develop healthy smiles that last a lifetime. While there’s no exact age when every child should start orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that you consider a visit to the orthodontist around age seven.

Why Age Seven?
By age seven, most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth. This special age makes it easier for the orthodontist to spot and fix any tooth or jaw problems early, often without the need for surgery or other aggressive treatments. Early treatment can offer several advantages for your child’s oral health:

• Jaw Growth: Orthodontists can guide the growth of your child’s jaw to help their permanent teeth come in straight and to help with the bite.
• Arch Width: They can regulate the width of the upper and lower arches to create enough space for crowded teeth.
• Avoiding Extractions: Early treatment may help avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions later in life.
• Thumb Sucking and Speech Improvement: Orthodontics can even help manage thumb-sucking habits and improve minor speech problems.

Is It Time for Your Child to See an Orthodontist?
As a parent, it’s not always easy to know when your child might need orthodontic treatment. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: If your child’s baby teeth are coming out sooner or later than expected, it might be a good time for a checkup.
• Chewing or Biting Difficulty: If your child has trouble chewing or biting food, it’s a sign that their bite might need attention.
• Mouth Breathing: Mouth breathing can indicate issues with tooth and jaw alignment.
• Finger or Thumb-sucking: Prolonged finger or thumb-sucking can affect dental development.
• Crowded, Misplaced, or Blocked Teeth: Teeth that are overcrowded or out of position may benefit from orthodontic evaluation.
• Jaw Noises: Clicking or popping sounds when your child opens and closes their mouth can be a sign of jaw problems.
• Abnormal Tooth Alignment: Teeth that don’t come together properly or have noticeable misalignment might need orthodontic care.
• Proportionate Smile: If your child’s teeth and jaws don’t seem proportionate to their face, it’s a good reason to consult an orthodontist.
• Early Crowding: If front teeth start to crowd around age seven or eight, it’s a sign that early intervention could be beneficial.

At PCO Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our board-certified orthodontist Dr. Ungphakorn has a deep understanding of your child’s unique dental needs. With years of experience working with children, we specialize in providing the precise care and attention required to ensure the best possible orthodontic treatment outcomes for young patients.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Timely Problem Identification
By starting orthodontic evaluations at a young age, potential issues can be identified and addressed early for proper jaw and tooth development.

Preventing the Progression of Problems
Early treatment can prevent the progression of dental and jaw irregularities, reducing the complexity of orthodontic issues in the future.

Enhanced Facial Development
Interceptive orthodontics can aid in promoting healthy facial growth and symmetry, addressing issues like overbites, underbites, or crossbites for a well-balanced facial appearance.

Minimizing Extractions
By creating adequate space for emerging adult teeth, interceptive orthodontics may help maintain a full set of natural teeth and minimize the need for extractions later in life.

Improved Bite Function
Correcting bite problems early can improve chewing and biting function, preventing discomfort and potential jaw issues associated with misalignment.

Addressing Habits
Early orthodontic care can help break detrimental habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, aiding in proper dental and speech development.

Enhanced Self-Esteem
A straight and healthy smile can boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence, promoting positive social interactions and a more positive self-image.

Orthodontics for Teens

Orthodontic treatment during the teenage years is a common and transformative experience. Adolescence is an ideal time for addressing dental and jaw irregularities, as many permanent teeth have erupted, making it possible to achieve excellent results.

For many teenagers, hearing the words “You need braces!” can be a source of apprehension. However, today’s orthodontic options offer a range of choices, including braces with various materials, clear aligners, and more.

Duration of Treatment
The duration of orthodontic treatment for teens can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case and patient cooperation. On average, treatment can last anywhere from 12 to 24 months. The orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline during the initial consultation.

Three essential factors influence the duration of orthodontic treatment for teenagers:

• Early Intervention: Some teens may have undergone early orthodontic intervention to address specific issues, potentially shortening the duration of comprehensive treatment.
• Nature of the Problem: The type and severity of orthodontic issues play a significant role in determining treatment duration.
• Patient Compliance: Adhering to the orthodontist’s guidance, including proper care of appliances and regular check-ups, is crucial for timely treatment.

Benefits Beyond Appearance
While achieving a straighter smile is a significant goal, orthodontic treatment for teens offers benefits that extend beyond appearance. These include improved oral function, better bite alignment, and enhanced overall oral health.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. Teens will receive guidance on maintaining their dental health while wearing braces or aligners.

Confidence Boost
A straight and healthy smile can boost a teenager’s self-confidence and positively impact their social interactions and self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment during the teenage years is an investment in a brighter future, providing not only a more beautiful smile but also improved oral health and function.

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

Orthodontic treatment is no longer exclusive to teenagers. A growing number of adults are choosing orthodontic care to enhance their oral health and smile aesthetics. Here’s a brief overview of orthodontics for adults at PCO Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics:

A New Perspective
Adults are discovering the benefits of orthodontic treatment, realizing that it’s never too late to achieve a straighter smile. Whether it’s addressing long-standing concerns or seeking cosmetic improvements, adults are embracing the transformative power of orthodontics.

Diverse Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment for adults offers a variety of options tailored to individual preferences and lifestyles. From discreet clear aligners to traditional braces, adults can choose the treatment that best suits their needs and comfort.

Health and Aesthetics
Beyond cosmetic enhancements, adult orthodontics can contribute to improved oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of various oral issues. Additionally, addressing bite problems can alleviate discomfort associated with misalignment.

A Comfortable Experience
Orthodontic advancements have led to more comfortable treatment options for adults. Whether it’s clear aligners that are nearly invisible or modern braces that are less bulky, adults can undergo treatment with confidence.

Customized Solutions
Adult orthodontic treatment plans are highly personalized, considering the unique needs and goals of each patient. Orthodontists work closely with adults to create a plan that aligns with their expectations and schedules.