Children's Orthodontics

Most children will be best treated with one phase of orthodontics when they have all of their permanent teeth. However, it is very important we see children at a younger age to monitor their growth and correct certain issues that arrise to ensure the most ideal orthodontic outcome. At Cuenin Orthodontics in Danville, California, Robert Cuenin, DDS, and Kyle Cuenin, DDS, provide children’s orthodontics, offering the highest level of care for your young one. To book a consultation about your child’s orthodontic needs, reach out by phone or feel free to request an appointment online, and the team will call you back to confirm.

What is children’s orthodontics?

At Cuenin Orthodontics, the team offers children's orthodontics, which focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities in children. They use the latest innovative appliances and techniques to align your child’s teeth and jaw to promote proper oral health and enhance your child's smile.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation for children by age 7. This early assessment allows your orthodontists at Cuenin Orthodontics to identify any potential issues and develop a personalized treatment plan, even if treatment isn’t necessary at that time. 

By monitoring your child's growth and development, your provider can determine the optimal time to start treatment if required.

What issues does children’s orthodontics address?

Children's orthodontics addresses a wide range of issues related to tooth and jaw alignment. Common orthodontic problems a child might experience include:

• Crowded teeth
• Spacing issues
• Misaligned jaw
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Open bite

These issues can lead to difficulties in chewing, speaking, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. They may also cause self-esteem and confidence issues as your child grows older.

What treatments do children’s orthodontics offer?

The most common treatment option for orthodontic issues is braces, such as traditional braces that apply gentle pressure to gradually move the teeth into their proper positions. In some cases, removable appliances such as Invisalign® or retainers may be used.

Other orthodontic treatments for children may include palatal expanders, which widen the upper jaw to create more space for permanent teeth, and headgear, which is used to guide the growth of the jaws and improve the bite. These appliances are typically recommended for specific cases where early intervention is necessary.

The Cuenin Orthodontics team takes a conservative care approach. Most children we see do not need two phases of orthodontics. However, if a jaw growth correction is needed or there are certain other spacing or bite issues, two phases of treatment may be required to achieve the highest quality outcome and to prevent damage to other permanent teeth.

If your child is age 8 or 9, full orthodontic treatment may not be recommended. However, an evaluation can provide the necessary steps to take.

The Cuenin Orthodontics team also emphasizes the importance of oral hygiene during treatment. 

To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call or request an appointment online today, which will be followed up with a confirmation from the office staff.