Understanding Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws through carefully controlled pressure applied over time. That might sound simple, but the science behind it is incredibly precise. We consider dozens of factors when planning treatment—how teeth fit together, jaw growth patterns, facial symmetry, airway function, and even how certain movements will affect your child’s profile.
Most people think orthodontics is purely cosmetic, but alignment issues can cause real problems. Crowded teeth are harder to clean, which increases cavity and gum disease. Bite problems can lead to uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. Sometimes misalignment even affects speech or makes chewing certain foods difficult. Fixing these issues improves both health and appearance.
When to Start Orthodontic Evaluation
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. That surprises many parents who assume treatment can’t start until all permanent teeth have erupted. While most children don’t require treatment at this early stage, evaluating growth patterns during the mixed dentition phase helps us identify problems that benefit from early intervention.
Some issues are much easier to address while a child is still growing. Severe crowding, crossbites, and jaw discrepancies often respond better to treatment that guides growth rather than trying to correct everything after growth stops. Dr. Jones calls it “catching the window”—that period when we can work with natural development instead of against it.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment We Offer
Traditional metal braces remain the most versatile and effective option for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Modern braces are smaller and more comfortable than those you might remember from your own childhood. They work by attaching brackets to teeth and connecting them with wires that gradually shift everything into proper alignment. Your child will visit us regularly for adjustments, and we’ll monitor progress closely throughout treatment.
Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces, but they use tooth-colored brackets that blend in more seamlessly. They’re popular with image-conscious teens who want effective treatment without the metallic look. The wires still show, but the overall appearance is much more subtle.
Clear aligners offer a removable alternative for certain cases. These custom-made trays shift teeth gradually without brackets or wires. Not every case qualifies for aligner treatment, but when it’s appropriate, many teens appreciate the flexibility and appearance. The catch is that aligners only work if patients wear them as directed—typically 20-22 hours per day.
What Orthodontics Addresses
We treat a wide range of alignment and bite issues. Crowding happens when there’s not enough space for all the permanent teeth to fit properly. Sometimes we can create space through expansion or by removing specific teeth strategically. Spacing issues—gaps between teeth—might seem like the opposite problem, but they also need correction to ensure proper function and stability.
Bite problems come in several varieties. Overbites (upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much), underbites (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth), and crossbites (some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth when biting down) all affect how teeth work together. Open bites leave gaps even when the jaw is closed, making it hard to bite into certain foods.
Common Issues We Correct
- Crowding: Overlapping or twisted teeth due to insufficient space
- Spacing: Gaps between teeth that affect appearance and function
- Overbite: Upper teeth extending too far over lower teeth
- Underbite: Lower jaw positioning that places the bottom teeth in front
- Crossbite: Misalignment that can cause uneven wear and jaw problems
- Open bite: Front teeth that don’t touch when the back teeth are together
The Treatment Process
Orthodontics in Kaysville starts with a comprehensive evaluation. We take photographs, X-rays, and sometimes digital scans to understand exactly what’s happening in your child’s mouth. We analyze this information carefully before recommending treatment options. We’ll explain what needs correction, why it matters, and how different approaches would work for your child’s specific situation.
Once treatment begins, regular appointments keep everything on track. These visits let us make adjustments, check progress, and address any concerns. Treatment length varies dramatically depending on what we’re correcting—some cases are completed in 12-18 months, while complex cases may take two to three years.
After braces come off, retainers maintain the results. Teeth naturally want to drift back toward their original positions, especially right after treatment ends. Wearing retainers as directed protects the investment you’ve made in your child’s smile.
Life with Braces
Adjusting to braces takes a few days, but most kids adapt quickly. They’ll need to avoid certain foods that could damage brackets—hard, sticky, or crunchy items top the list. Brushing and flossing become more important and slightly more challenging, but we teach techniques that make proper hygiene manageable. Most soreness happens right after adjustments and responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers.
Expert Orthodontics in Kaysville
Orthodontic treatment represents a significant commitment of time and resources, but the benefits last a lifetime. Confident smiles open doors socially and professionally. Proper alignment protects teeth from premature wear and makes them easier to keep clean. We have watched countless kids transform not just their smiles but their entire self-image through orthodontic care.
Ready to explore orthodontic options for your child? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones at Kaysville Pediatric Dental & Orthodontics. We’ll evaluate your child’s needs and create a treatment plan that works for your family. Call today to get started!