Picking the closest kids’ orthodontist isn’t enough. During orthodontic treatment kids need specific care that takes into account their individual developmental needs, emotional issues and behavioral issues. At Dentistry on the Pines we know kids and teens deserve treatment that is kind and focused on them and the people who provide that care should really like dealing with kids and teens.

There are many ways pediatric orthodontic treatment is different from adult care. As kids grow up and get permanent teeth their mouths are always changing. This changing environment needs professionals who know how to time interventions correctly to get the most out of natural growth processes while fixing alignment issues.

Early intervention stops problems from getting worse later on. The American Association of Orthodontists says kids should have their first orthodontic exam by age 7 when they usually have their first permanent front teeth and first molars. At this point professionals can find possible problems and decide if early treatment would help each child.

Phase One treatment also called interceptive orthodontics fixes certain issues that happen when both baby and permanent teeth are present at the same time. Common treatments are widening narrow palates, fixing crossbites and making room for permanent teeth. These early treatments often make later full treatments easier and shorter.

Child friendly treatment methods make it easier for kids to be comfortable and cooperative during their orthodontic journey. Pediatric orthodontists that do well communicate in ways that are appropriate for the child’s age, use positive reinforcement and use gentle methods that reduce anxiety and fear. When kids have good experiences with orthodontic care they are more likely to keep their teeth clean and follow the treatment plan.

Kids and teens still like traditional metal braces for many reasons. Today’s brackets are thinner and more comfortable than older ones. Coloured elastics let kids make their braces their own and show off their personalities. Many kids like choosing different colours at each adjustment appointment which makes the treatment more fun.

Teens who care about their looks and prefer treatment options that are less noticeable like clear ceramic braces. These brackets are the same colour as teeth and work well and make the braces look less metallic which some teens don’t like. But ceramic braces need extra care to keep them from getting stained so they might be better for older kids who are responsible.For some kids especially older teens who show maturity and responsibility removable appliances like clear aligners can be very helpful. You have to wear these appliances all the time and be careful with them so they aren’t as good for smaller kids who might lose or break removable appliances more easily.

Teaching kids how to take care of their teeth is very important during orthodontic treatment. Fixed appliances make it easier for plaque to build up on more surfaces which increases the risk of gum irritation and tooth decay. We give kids and their parents specific instructions and ongoing support to help them keep their teeth and gums healthy during treatment.

Parents play a big part in making sure kid orthodontic treatment works. Parents help make sure kids follow the treatment plan, keep their mouths clean and go to all their appointments on time. Parents, kids and orthodontic providers should all be able to communicate freely. This makes the treatment more likely to work.

Considering school schedules makes children orthodontic care more complicated than adult care. We work with families to make sure kids get their adjustments and monitoring on time while keeping school schedules as normal as possible. Flexible appointment scheduling works around school hours and extracurricular activities whenever possible.

When kids are involved emergencies need to be dealt with right away. Young patients may feel uncomfortable and anxious if their brackets are broken, their bands are loose or their wires are sticking out. Having a local doctor who can deal with these problems promptly helps keep treatment on track and makes kids feel better.

Kids getting orthodontic treatment have to think about some special things when they play sports or play musical instruments. We talk about how different appliances could affect musical performance and give families advice on mouthguards. This helps them make smart decisions about when to start treatment and what options are available.

Our full service office also provides Root Canal treatment for kids with sick teeth and Dental Implants for older teens who need to replace a tooth.

Families in Vaughan can get specialized pediatric orthodontic care that’s made just for kids and teens who are growing. We still believe in making orthodontic visits positive and building a foundation for good dental health and confidence for life.