Provider
A Conservative Approach to Children's Orthodontics
As your child grows and develops, orthodontic issues may also arise. Children should see an orthodontist for an assessment so that any problems can be identified and monitored.
We take a conservative approach to orthodontics for children, focusing on closely watching their growth and development. Our goal is to intervene only when it's truly necessary, typically in situations where a child may have a narrow upper jaw or a crossbite or when adult teeth aren't getting the chance to grow into their perfect spots.
Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment can help address several common oral problems that children encounter as they grow up, such as speech and eating issues, airway issues, teeth grinding, thumb sucking, and more. The information we gather during monitoring can guide and inform future orthodontic treatment.
At our Appleton and Green Bay orthodontic clinics, we provide jaw growth guidance with palatal expanders, as well as Invisalign First clear aligners and traditional braces for our young patients.
Consultations & Monitoring for Children
Children should visit with an orthodontist for the first time around the age of seven for an orthodontic consultation. This visit will allow us to determine whether any orthodontic treatment is needed.
If it is, we'll commence with a treatment plan. If not, we offer free assessment appointments every six to 12 months until your child is ready for comprehensive orthodontic care.
Care Beyond Braces & Invisalign
Children's mouths grow quickly, which means that frequent checkups and close monitoring can go a long way in preventing orthodontic issues.
Space Maintainers
If your child has lost a baby tooth early, they may need a space maintainer. Without this appliance, the adjacent teeth may drift into that spot and prevent an adult tooth from being able to come in. If a space maintainer is not placed, it may make future orthodontics for your child much more difficult and sometimes more costly.
Thumb Sucking Correction
Thumb sucking can lead to various orthodontic issues in children, including an open bite and a constricted upper jaw, potentially complicating breathing later in life. At Engage Orthodontics, we're committed to managing your child’s thumb-sucking habit.
Breathing & Airway Concerns
Jaw development, airway health, and quality of sleep are crucial for overall wellness. Dr. Melanie takes a special interest in treating Green Bay children ages three to six who face breathing and airway challenges.
Early Orthodontic Treatments for Kids
Here are a few of the most common orthodontic treatment options for kids offered at Engage Orthodontics.