Phoenix, AZ
Pediatric Orthodontics
At North Phoenix Pediatric Dentistry, we offer two phases of orthodontic treatment. Phase 1 orthodontics takes place at a young age while many baby teeth are still present to prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future. Phase 2 orthodontics, on the other hand, is designed to address orthodontic concerns later on, when most or all permanent teeth are present. Our goal is to create beautifully straight smiles with the least invasive means possible.
When Should Your Child Have an Orthodontic Evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have orthodontic evaluations by age 7. Many developmental concerns are easy to identify during this stage and can be corrected before they become more complex problems.
Our orthodontists at North Phoenix Pediatric Dentistry will recommend treatment based on your child’s unique needs. Some children require early intervention, while others benefit from waiting until most permanent teeth are in. Our approach will differ based on individual needs and what’s best for your child.
Phase 1 Orthodontics – An Overview
Phase 1 orthodontics, also known as early interceptive treatment, occurs when a child has more baby teeth than adult ones, usually between the ages of 7 and 11. It is designed to intercept orthodontic problems and intervene while a child’s jawbones are highly responsive to treatment. Early orthodontics helps us correct a range of concerns before they become full-blown problems.
Phase 1 orthodontics typically involves using oral appliances such as space maintainers, palatal expanders, or limited braces to guide facial and jaw growth and development. Conditions requiring early intervention include crowded, gapped, crooked, or protruding teeth, along with underbites, overbites, open bites, and crossbites. The goal is to correct or prevent issues with the position or spacing of the teeth and jaws so treatment is easier and less invasive down the road.
Phase 2 Orthodontics – An Overview
Phase 2 orthodontic treatments usually begin around age 12 or 13 and may involve the use of braces or Invisalign. The goal of this phase is to build upon the progress achieved during phase 1 to deliver beautiful, straight smiles that last.
Traditional Metal Braces: Today’s metal braces are smaller and less bulky than in the past, although they work similarly. They are made of metal brackets connected by wires that place pressure on your teen’s teeth, gradually shifting them into alignment. The wires connect to the brackets using rubber bands called elastics that come in various fun colors for a custom appearance.
Invisalign Teen: Invisalign by Align Technology utilizes a series of clear, virtually invisible aligners that fit snugly over your child’s teeth, shifting them gently into alignment. The world’s most advanced clear aligner system effectively corrects a range of mild to complex orthodontic problems with dramatic results. Your child will need to wear the aligner trays for 20-22 hours each day for the best results.
Visit North Phoenix Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our orthodontic solutions for healthier, happier smiles. We’re fortunate to have an exceptional team of board-certified orthodontists who work alongside us at our dental office to provide your child with state-of-the-art orthodontic services.
Pediatric Orthodontic Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ
If you’d like to evaluate your child’s growth and development or if you have any orthodontic concerns, North Phoenix Pediatric Dentistry is here to help. We invite you to contact our office at 602-864-1080 to schedule an appointment or request one online today! We offer free orthodontic consultations. Don’t forget to visit our Facebook!
Note that existing dentistry patients receive discounted orthodontic services.