Children’s Orthodontics Riverton
Starting Your Child’s Smile Off the Right Way
Having properly-aligned teeth isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about ensuring proper oral function and development. However, it’s hard to deny the confidence that comes with a straighter smile, especially for children. At our Riverton office, Dr. Paulson and our team offer a comprehensive range of pediatric orthodontic solutions, from interceptive and phase 1 orthodontics to tried-and-true traditional braces. To learn more or schedule an appointment for your child, just give our team a call!
Interceptive Orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics focuses on identifying and addressing developing dental and jaw issues before they become more serious problems. By stepping in early, we can guide proper tooth eruption, correct harmful oral habits, and create the space growing teeth need. This proactive approach often reduces the complexity and length of future treatment, giving your child the best possible foundation for a healthy, confident smile.
Comprehensive Orthodontics
Comprehensive orthodontics is a full-scope treatment plan designed to correct misaligned teeth, improper bites, and jaw irregularities from start to finish. Typically recommended for older children, teens, and adolescents once most permanent teeth have come in, it’s designed to address crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Our team works closely with each family to create a personalized treatment plan that achieves lasting results.
Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances are specialized devices used to guide jaw development, hold space for incoming teeth, or correct bite issues that braces alone may not fully address. They can also be helpful for non-nutritive habits like thumb-sucking. Common examples include palate expanders, space maintainers, retainers, and habit-breaking appliances. Each device is custom-fitted to your child's unique smile and will be carefully monitored throughout treatment.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces remain one of the most effective and trusted options for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns in children and teens. Using metal brackets and wires, braces apply gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. Plus, today's braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. Kids can even personalize their look with colored bands, making the experience a little more fun!
Phase 1 Orthodontics
Similar to interceptive orthodontics, Phase 1 orthodontics is typically recommended for children between the ages of 6 and 9, when certain bite or jaw concerns are best corrected while the jaw is still growing. Treating issues like severe crowding, crossbites, or protruding front teeth at this stage can prevent more complex problems later and may even reduce the need for tooth extractions or surgery.