Best Orthodontic Treatment For Kids In Clear Lake City, Houston
Welcome to Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry, located in Clear Lake City, Houston! Our experienced team of orthodontists and compassionate staff are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care for children. We offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces, clear aligners, and other advanced options tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. At Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to helping your child achieve a healthy, beautiful, and confident smile through expert orthodontic care.
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist In Clear Lake City
How To Reach Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
The Nearest Public Transport Station To Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
Bay Area Park & Ride: 3.5 miles away from Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
El Dorado Park & Ride: 3.2 miles away from Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
San Jacinto College South: 4.6 miles away from Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
Why Choose Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry In Clear Lake City, Houston?
- We have a highly qualified board-certified pediatric dentist.
- We have a child-friendly environment.
- We accept most of the insurance plans.
- We provide effective treatments.
What Is Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. It can improve the appearance of your smile and also has benefits for your oral health.
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of devices such as braces and aligners to correct dental and jaw alignment issues. Early intervention in children can prevent more severe problems in adulthood, making orthodontic treatment an essential part of pediatric dental care.
Types of Orthodontic Issues in Kids
Overbite: An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than they should. This can cause problems with biting and chewing, and can also make the front teeth more prone to injury.
Underbite: An underbite is when the lower front teeth protrude further out than the upper front teeth. This can cause problems with speech, chewing, and jaw function.
Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth on one or both sides of the mouth. This can cause uneven wear of the teeth and jaw problems.
Open bite: An open bite is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth are biting together. This can make it difficult to bite or chew food properly.
Crowding: This occurs when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all of the permanent teeth to erupt properly. This can cause teeth to become crooked or misaligned.
Spacing: Spacing occurs when there are gaps between the teeth. This can be caused by a number of factors, including small teeth, a large jaw, or missing teeth.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Orthodontic Treatment
Difficulty chewing or biting: Struggling with basic eating functions.
Mouth breathing: Often a sign of misaligned teeth.
Thumb sucking: This can lead to dental misalignments.
Teeth grinding: May cause tooth damage and misalignment.
Misaligned teeth: Visible signs of crooked or uneven teeth.
Speech difficulties: Trouble pronouncing certain words.
Causes of Orthodontic Issues in Kids
Genetics: This is a major player. If parents have misaligned teeth or jaw discrepancies, their children are more likely to inherit a similar predisposition. Modern human jaws are smaller than our ancestors, so there may not be enough space for all permanent teeth to erupt comfortably.
Bad Habits: Habits like thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use can exert pressure on the teeth and jaw, leading to misalignment. Persistent tongue thrusting against the teeth can also cause problems.
Early or Late Tooth Loss: If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay or injury, it can cause nearby teeth to shift and crowd the space meant for the permanent tooth. Conversely, retaining a baby tooth for too long can also block the eruption of the permanent tooth behind it.
Jaw Problems: Underdeveloped or overdeveloped jaws can cause teeth to erupt in incorrect positions. This can lead to crowding, protrusion, or bite problems.
Nutritional deficiencies: During childhood growth, a lack of essential nutrients can impact jaw development and tooth health.
Injuries: Trauma to the mouth can damage teeth and disrupt jaw growth, potentially leading to orthodontic issues.
Treatment Options for Kids
Traditional metal braces: These are the most common type of braces and are very effective at straightening teeth. They consist of brackets that are bonded to each tooth and a wire that is threaded through the brackets. The orthodontist will tighten the wire over time to gradually move the teeth into the desired position.
Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces work just like metal braces, but the brackets are tooth-colored, making them less noticeable. They are a good option for kids who are self-conscious about having metal braces.
Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign): Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are a newer option for straightening teeth. They are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible. Unlike braces, clear aligners are removable, so kids can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. However, they may not be as effective as braces for all types of orthodontic problems.
Palatal expanders: Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper jaw. They are typically used in younger children whose upper jaw is too narrow.
Places To Visit - Near Bay Oaks Pediatric Dentistry
