When Should Children Get Braces in Fullerton?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7 to evaluate their bite and tooth alignment. Early evaluation allows us to identify potential issues and determine the optimal timing for treatment.
Signs your child may benefit from dental braces in Fullerton include crooked or crowded teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, or jaw pain. We assess each child individually to create personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
What Types of Braces Are Available for Children in Fullerton?
Modern orthodontic treatment offers several options for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues.
Metal braces remain highly effective for correcting various orthodontic problems:
- Provide precise control over tooth movement
- Works well for complex alignment issues
- Often, the most cost-effective option
Clear aligners may be suitable for older children and teens with mild to moderate alignment issues:
- Nearly invisible appearance
- Removable for eating and cleaning
- Require excellent compliance for success
The most effective approach depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences.
How Do Braces Work to Straighten Teeth?
Dental braces apply gentle, continuous pressure to move teeth into proper positions gradually. This process typically takes 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your child’s case.
During treatment, we schedule regular appointments to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Our parent resources section provides helpful information to support you throughout this journey.
What Should Parents Expect During Braces Treatment?
Your child’s orthodontic journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. We examine their teeth, jaw, and bite patterns to develop an appropriate treatment plan. This visit also allows your child to become familiar with our office environment and team.
Regular Adjustment Appointments
Braces require periodic adjustments to ensure teeth move according to plan:
- Appointments typically occur every 4-6 weeks
- Each visit includes cleaning around brackets and wires
- We monitor progress and address any concerns
Treatment appointments at our Fullerton office include entertainment options to keep children comfortable and engaged throughout their visit.
How Can Parents Help Children Care for Braces?
Proper oral hygiene becomes even more important when children have braces. Food particles and plaque can easily accumulate around brackets and wires, potentially leading to tooth decay or gum inflammation.
Daily Care Instructions
Encourage your child to brush thoroughly after every meal and snack. Special orthodontic brushes and floss threaders may help clean around braces more effectively.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can damage braces or become stuck in the wires:
- Hard candy and ice cubes
- Sticky foods like caramels or gum
- Crunchy snacks such as popcorn or nuts
Our team provides comprehensive care instructions and dietary guidelines to ensure successful treatment outcomes.
What Makes ChildSmiles OC Different for Braces in Fullerton?
Our approach to orthodontic care prioritizes your child’s comfort and positive experience. We understand that children may feel anxious about dental procedures, so we’ve created an environment designed specifically for young patients.
Dr. Dowlaty’s extensive training in pediatric dentistry ensures he understands child development and behavior management techniques. As a father himself, he brings empathy and patience to every appointment, treating each patient with the same care he would give his children.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Braces in Fullerton?
Most dental insurance plans offer some coverage for orthodontic treatment, particularly when it is medically necessary. We accept a wide range of insurance plans and also work with families who have Medi-Cal benefits.
Our team helps navigate insurance benefits and explores payment options to make treatment accessible. We believe every child deserves quality orthodontic care, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
Insurance Plans We Accept
We work with numerous insurance providers to maximize your benefits:
- Delta Dental and BlueCross BlueShield
- Aetna and United Concordia
- Various HMO plans, including DeltaCare and Safeguard
Our administrative team verifies benefits and provides cost estimates before treatment initiation.
How Long Does Braces Treatment Take in Fullerton?
Treatment duration varies based on each child’s unique orthodontic needs. Simple cases may require 12 to 18 months, while more complex issues might take up to three years to complete.
Factors affecting treatment time include the severity of misalignment, your child’s age, and compliance with care instructions. We provide realistic timelines during consultation and update families regularly about progress.
Schedule Your Child’s Braces Consultation With Child Smiles OC
Dental braces in Fullerton can transform your child’s smile and improve their oral health for years to come. Early evaluation and timely treatment often lead to better outcomes and may reduce the complexity of future orthodontic needs. At ChildSmiles OC, we combine advanced treatment techniques with a compassionate, child-centered approach to create positive experiences for the whole family.
Ready to learn more about orthodontic options for your child? Contact our Fullerton office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Dowlaty. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions about your child’s oral health journey. Call (714) 253-3172 or complete a contact form to book your appointment at any of our convenient Orange County locations.
