KIDS ORTHODONTIST PALO ALTO CA

Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Intervention

Identifying the need for early orthodontic intervention can ensure timely treatment and prevent more extensive procedures later on. Here are some signs that might indicate your child should see an orthodontist:

Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth
If your child loses baby teeth unusually early or late, it may affect the alignment of their permanent teeth. An orthodontist can evaluate whether any preventive measures are necessary to guide the proper spacing and growth of new teeth.

Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Watch if your child struggles or shows discomfort while chewing or biting food. This could be a sign of misalignment that, if corrected early, can improve their ability to eat comfortably and properly digest food.

Mouth Breathing
Persistent mouth breathing can be associated with dental and facial growth abnormalities. While orthodontists do not treat the breathing issue itself, they can address the orthodontic problems that arise from it.

Crowding or Misplaced Teeth
Crowding or visibly misplaced teeth are clear indicators for orthodontic evaluation. Early intervention can help manage space and guide teeth into their correct positions as your child grows.

Jaws that Shift or Make Sounds
If you notice your child’s jaw shifting or making sounds when moving, it could be a sign of a jaw alignment problem. An orthodontist can assess the situation to prevent further complications related to jaw function.

Frequent Biting of the Cheek or Roof of the Mouth
Frequent biting inside the mouth might indicate a misalignment issue like a crossbite, where upper and lower teeth do not align properly when the mouth is closed.

Protruding Teeth
Teeth that stick out can be at higher risk for injuries and often indicate underlying orthodontic issues. Correcting the protrusion can not only improve appearance but also protect the teeth from damage.

Interceptive Treatment Options at Palo Alto Orthodontics

At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we provide a range of interceptive orthodontic treatments designed to address and correct issues early in a child’s dental development. These proactive measures help to optimize oral health outcomes and often reduce the need for more extensive treatments later. Here’s an overview of the interceptive options we offer:

Expanders
To address issues like crowding or improper jaw development, we use expanders that gently widen the upper jaw. This not only helps create enough space for permanent teeth to emerge correctly but also improves the overall alignment and function of the jaw.

Habit Appliances
For children who have persistent habits that affect dental health, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, we provide custom-designed habit appliances. These devices help discourage harmful habits, promoting healthier dental development.

Space Maintainers
If your child loses a baby tooth prematurely, we may recommend a space maintainer. This appliance holds the space open to ensure that permanent teeth erupt in the correct position, preventing shifting and misalignment of surrounding teeth.

Guided Eruption
By carefully monitoring the eruption of permanent teeth, we can intervene at just the right time to guide them into their optimal positions. This strategic approach often reduces the complexity of later treatments.

Customized Braces
For some children, early intervention might involve placing braces on a few teeth. These braces are used to correct specific problems like tilting or rotating teeth, which can significantly affect the overall dental alignment as more teeth emerge.

Clear Aligners
For appropriate cases, we also offer clear aligners tailored for younger patients. These aligners are nearly invisible and can be a less invasive and more aesthetically pleasing option for children and their parents. They are especially useful for correcting mild to moderate alignment issues and are ideal for patients who seek a less noticeable treatment method.

Two-Phased Treatment Approach for Kids

Our Two-Phased Treatment approach at Palo Alto Orthodontics is designed to maximize the effectiveness of orthodontic care by addressing issues at the most appropriate stages of a child’s growth and dental development. Here’s a detailed look at each phase:

Phase I – Early Treatment

Phase I, also known as the interceptive phase, begins while your child still has most of their primary (baby) teeth and typically starts around age 7-10. This phase is focused on treating the jaw and bite alignment issues that are easier to correct while the facial bones are still growing. Here are the key objectives of Phase I:

• Correcting Jaw Irregularities
• Lowering Risk of Trauma to Protruding Front Teeth
• Correcting Harmful Oral Habits
• Improving Aesthetics and Self-Esteem

During this phase, specific appliances may be used to correct preliminary orthodontic issues. The goal is not to complete the treatment of all orthodontic problems but rather to prepare the mouth for the optimal emergence of the permanent teeth.

Phase II – Final Alignment

Following the completion of Phase I and after most of the permanent teeth have come in, Phase II treatment typically begins. This phase is usually initiated around age 11-13 and involves aligning all the teeth and perfecting the bite. The objectives of Phase II include:

Aligning Permanent Teeth
This phase ensures each tooth is located in the perfect position within the mouth for the best aesthetic and functional outcome.

Ensuring Proper Bite and Jaw Function
Phase II aims to ensure the teeth and jaws work together correctly to support optimal biting, chewing, and speaking.

Refining Aesthetics
The final alignment adjustments are made during this phase, which not only improve oral function but also contribute to a balanced, harmonious facial appearance. In some cases, braces or clear aligners are used during Phase II to move the teeth into the desired positions. 

The Two-Phased Treatment approach at Palo Alto Orthodontics is about making timely interventions that align with the stages of dental development, ensuring your child achieves both a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Meet Your Local Kids Orthodontist in Palo Alto

Dr. Jenny Yoo

Dr. Jenny Yoo offers top-notch orthodontic care in a friendly, upbeat environment using the latest technological advances, including invisible ceramic brackets, Invisalign supported by digital imaging and advanced computer graphics, and self-ligating brackets.

Dr.Yoo loves helping residents of Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Atherton, and the surrounding area achieve the beautiful smiles they deserve. She remains dedicated to expanding her knowledge in orthodontics, Invisalign, ideal function, and esthetics through continuous education.

Consultation and Getting Started

Embarking on your child’s orthodontic journey begins with a simple yet crucial step – scheduling a free consultation. Here’s what parents can expect during this initial phase:

• Scheduling a Consultation: To get started, parents can reach out to our office to schedule a FREE consultation for your child. 
• Initial Assessment: During the consultation, Dr. Yoo and our team will make you and your child comfortable as we conduct the assessment using advanced techniques like digital imaging and low-radiation X-rays.
• Discussion of Treatment Options: Following the assessment, Dr. Yoo will explain the treatment options available and recommended for your child’s case.
• Addressing Questions and Concerns: We want parents to feel confident and well-informed about the proposed treatment plan and the steps involved.

Book a Consultation

Set an appointment with Palo Alto Orthodontics and let our friendly team assist you and answer any questions you may have. In orthodontics, early treatment is better than waiting. Don’t delay the opportunity to gift your child a healthy smile. Get your FREE consultation today!