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(586) 263-9300
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| Michael E. Simony, D.D.S. |
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Your Child’s First Orthodontic Checkup
To have a smile that is good for life, your child needs teeth and jaws that are properly aligned. As a parent, you want the very best for your child’s health. Your child’s first exam and cleaning should be no later than 3 years of age.
The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first Orthodontic evaluation should be no later than 7 years of age. By then, your child’s teeth have developed enough to where subtle problems can be spotted with jaw growth and emerging teeth. While orthodontic treatment most often begins between the ages of 8 and 14yrs of age, most orthodontic problems can be corrected if they are treated early. Dr. Simony will advise you when the ideal time to begin by evaluating your child at the exam.
When your child is ready, Dr. Simony will start with a procedure called an Orthodontic Records appointment. The records appointment consists of a cephalometric film, which is an x-ray that shows the head and jaw structure from a profile, a Panoramic x-ray, which is a full view of the entire mouth, and Diagnostic cast models, which are impressions that are taken of the teeth and they are poured up into stone models. Last but not least, the doctor will take oral facial photographic images of your child’s’ teeth and face. These records are the first step in diagnosing your child’s orthodontic treatment. Dr. Simony will analyze and do measurements on the x-rays and models to determine which treatment is best for your child and how long treatment will be needed. The next appointment is a consultation. The parents or legal guardian will sit down with Dr. Simony and he will go over the treatment and cost.
The dental office offers a payment plan thru Care credit. Care credit is a dental credit card which has many no-interest options that can help parent’s finance the treatment. Some insurance companies do pay for Orthodontics. It is best to check with the front office to see what is covered. The reception desk is very good at letting you know the estimated coverage.
Signs your child’s bite is not right
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Breathing through the mouth
- Thumb sucking
- Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
- Jaws that are too far forward or back
- Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Protruding teeth
- Upper and lower teeth that don’t meet, or meet in an abnormal way
- An unbalanced facial appearance
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
These are the most common signs your child may be experiencing. Well aligned teeth not only look good, they are important to good dental health. Poorly aligned teeth can lead to dental problems and decay. Not everyone needs orthodontics, but if your child is having these problems, it is best to start treatment early so they can be corrected in a timely manner. Many people have the idea tht it is best to wait until the teenage years. Parents don’t realize they are starting late when important photos such as Homecoming, prom, and graduation pictures are taken.
Dr. Simony also offers clear braces and Invisalign. Invisalign are clear removable liners that are taken in and out when eating and drinking. With Invisalign you will come in about every two to three weeks to receive a new set of aligners. Not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign. Dr. Simony will let you know at your evaluation. All your Questions will be answered at your consultation appointment.
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"Thanks Dr. Simony! Getting braces was the best thing ever! I love how my teeth look now - I am always smiling."
- Lauren
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