Ortho Screenings

Various tooth and jaw issues open the door to orthodontics in a growing child. Crow Canyon Dental may point out that your child's baby teeth appear crowded or that the relationship between the jaws isn't ideal. While not generally the time for treatment, it may help you prepare for the possibility of future corrective care. As permanent teeth appear, usually around age 6, Dr. Nakhla monitors the process further and lets you decide if early orthodontic treatment makes sense.

Although the majority of cases involve teenagers, braces can help some kids in their earlier years. Since permanent teeth are typically larger than baby teeth, space may need to be opened with the gentle force of braces. This allows teeth to move into place properly, helping avoid more extensive treatment later.

A narrow jaw or a large overbite may create a similar dilemma. Guiding jaw growth while your child is developing can make a tremendous difference in the long-term outcome. Once the growth stops in the teen years, the only corrective measure often involves surgery, which is always a good scenario to avoid when possible.

The Usual Track


Many youngsters benefit the most from orthodontics after baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth move into place. This classic case may start in the early teen years, leaving a nicely aligned and highly functional set of teeth going into adulthood. The length of time spent wired up can vary, but the average treatment time often falls around two years.

Various methods allow orthodontic treatment to solve nearly every possible scenario, but successful treatment relies on good patient compliance. Wearing elastic bands consistently, keeping follow-up appointments for adjustments, and practicing outstanding home care can lead to a positive outcome. This commitment also involves frequent preventive visits with your hygienist, a strategy that helps avoid cavities around brackets. The Crow Canyon Dental team specializes in helping our orthodontic patients enjoy a successful outcome: a gorgeous, healthy smile.