About Orthodontics
Position, Alignment and Spacing
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends all kids are screened by an orthodontist at age 7. This allows the orthodontist to evaluate the growth of the upper and lower jaws as well as the space available for the incoming permanent teeth. Many treatment options are only available while your child is still young and still has baby teeth. If there is no advantage to treating at a younger age we will always wait until your child is older.
If your child is past this age please don’t hesitate to make a screening appointment. At Blossom, we want you to have all of your options explained and questions answered, so we offer the initial orthodontic screening appointment at no charge! Remember Blossom Orthodontics also sees adults!
Call (734) 971-3368 or Request an appointment.
Click here to learn more about two phase treatment.
- All About Braces
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Braces can be metal or ceramic. They are placed on your teeth with a wire to gently align your teeth and correct your bite. Often times elastics or springs are used to get your teeth and bite to fit perfectly.
- Brushing with Braces
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Brushing with braces only takes a little more time and effort and becomes part of your routine quickly. It is important to keep your teeth clean while orthodontic appliances are in place to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Don’t forget to keep up with your regular 6-month cleanings with your pediatric or general dentist.
- Food Considerations
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Food that are hard or sticky will break or loosen your orthodontic appliances. You can still eat a healthy well-balanced diet with braces (as well as an occasional sweet treat!), you may just need a few modifications.
- Sports/Instruments
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You can still play all your instruments as sports with braces or aligners on. We always recommend wearing your mouthguard and we are happy to provide you an orthodontic mouthguard at no additional cost. Let us know if you need one at your next visit!
- Early Orthodontic TX
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Some orthodontic problems such as a narrow palate, or a shift in the bite are better treated when the patients are young and still have baby teeth. Once the early treatment is complete there is usually a short break before full orthodontic treatment is complete. This type of treatment may also be called phase I or interceptive treatment.
- Aligners
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Aligners can be a great alternative to braces for orthodontic treatment. At your screening appointment Dr. Ahmed will discuss all your options, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of aligner treatment.
- Habits
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A finger or thumb habit can be difficult for the child to break and frustrating for parents. We have several options available to help your child overcome their finger habit, and recover from any changes that may have occurred with your child’s teeth/jaws.
- How To Turn Your Expander
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Review this video if you need help with turning your expander. If you still have questions after viewing this video please call the office (734) 971-3368.
- Adult Treatment Options
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Blossom Orthodontics treats both children and adults! We offer braces, as well as esthetic options, such as Invisalign (reg trademark) and ceramic brackets. You’re here anyway with your child, why not get your treatment done as well!
