Orthodontics for Young Children

An early phase of treatment may precede braces to take advantage of a child’s growing jaws.  Early treatment moves jaw bones and chewing muscles into position, setting the stage for the most stable bite correction possible.  This early orthopedic (or “bone”) phase of treatment may last a year or more.

• A palatal expander gently widens a too-small upper jaw to make room for crowded teeth.
• A habit corrector helps stop thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting (a swallowing habit), or mouth-breathing.
• A functional appliance guides growing jaws into position and teaches chewing muscles to “bite right.”
• Braces move a child’s permanent teeth into position.
• Headgear helps realign jaws or move teeth into line.
• A retainer helps stabilize teeth in their new positions.