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Child and teen orthodontics treats common alignment issues and bite abnormalities, including overcrowding, gaps between the teeth, and overbites. At Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics, experienced orthodontist Mandana Mozayeni, DDS, MSD, specializes in child and teen orthodontics. Call the nearest office in Chardon, Cuyahoga Falls, Cleveland, or Middleburg, Ohio, today to make an appointment for your child or book your visit online.
Child and Teen Orthodontics Q & A
What is child and teen orthodontics?
Child and teen orthodontics is an orthodontic subspecialty that treats bite abnormalities and other alignment issues in people 18 and younger.
Orthodontic treatment uses custom oral appliances, like braces, clear aligners, and orthodontic retainers, to place mild pressure on your child’s teeth and jaw. This pressure moves the teeth or jaw into proper alignment, improving the appearance of your child’s smile while supporting their oral health.
What kinds of alignment issues can benefit from child and teen orthodontics?
Dr. Mozayeni uses child and teen orthodontics to treat various alignment issues, including:
- Overcrowding
- Gaps between the teeth
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Mismatched dental midlines
- Biting and chewing difficulties
- Speech issues
Sometimes, Dr. Mozayeni prescribes child and teen orthodontics to make room for permanent teeth. For example, if your child’s jaw is too small for their permanent teeth to emerge, she might recommend orthodontics to create more room.
What does child and teen orthodontics involve?
Dr. Mozayeni recommends all children undergo an orthodontic exam by age seven. At that age, most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. That allows Dr. Mozayeni to recognize orthodontic issues, like bite abnormalities, in their early stages.
Dr. Mozayeni completes an oral exam and takes a series of 3D oral X-rays. If she identifies any alignment issues in your child’s mouth, she develops a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your child’s needs, she could suggest:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear braces
- Clear aligners
- Orthodontic retainer
- Palatal expander
- Headgear
- Space maintainers
These appliances improve the alignment of your child’s teeth and jaw, enhancing the symmetry and appearance of their smile.
How long does child and teen orthodontics take?
The time that child and teen orthodontics takes depends on the alignment issues treated and their severity. Most kids complete treatment in 18-24 months*, but it may take longer. Your child visits Dr. Mozayeni every 6-8 weeks during treatment. At each checkup, Dr. Mozayeni monitors your child’s progress, adjusting the treatment plan when needed.
For optimal results, encourage your child to wear their orthodontic appliances as prescribed, brush and floss regularly, and follow Dr. Mozayeni’s instructions.
Call the nearest Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics office today to schedule child and teen orthodontics for your child, or book an appointment online.
*Individual results may vary.