Orthodontics Pediatric Dentistry Ellicott City, MD
Orthodontics and pediatric dentistry work together to keep kids’ teeth and gums healthy as they grow and develop. At Level Orthodontics, we know that successful pediatric orthodontic treatment requires close cooperation with pediatric dental professionals to make sure kids get full care that meets both their general oral health and their specific orthodontic needs. This team-based approach gives families treatment that is seamless and helps their children’s teeth grow in the best way possible from early childhood through the teenage years.
Pediatric dentistry focuses on preventing, finding and treating dental problems in kids which lays the foundation for good oral health for the rest of their lives. Pediatric dentists watch how teeth come in, find cavities early and provide them the cleanings and fluoride treatments they need to keep their teeth healthy while they are getting braces. We work closely with these experts to make sure kids keep their teeth clean and cavity free while they are getting braces.
The timing of orthodontic treatment usually depends on what the pediatric dentist finds during regular appointments. Pediatric dentists are usually the first to see orthodontic problems that are getting worse, like crowding, spacing issues or bite problems. They are important because they send patients to orthodontic professionals at the right time, so kids have orthodontic evaluations when they can be most helpful and least invasive.
When children’s dentists find possible problems during routine checkups, early orthodontic screening becomes even more important. We recommend kids get their first orthodontic checkup around age 7, usually after their pediatric dentist has noticed concerning patterns in their development. This early evaluation lets us monitor growth and development while determining the best time for intervention that takes advantage of natural growth spurts.
Preventive care coordination between orthodontic and pediatric dental offices makes sure kids’ teeth and gums stay healthy while they are getting braces. When kids wear braces or other orthodontic appliances, regular cleanings are even more important because it can be harder to take care of their teeth at home. We give you specific advice on how to keep your mouth clean and pediatric dentists watch for cavities and gum inflammation that can happen during treatment.Space management is one area where orthodontists and pediatric dentists often collaborate. Space maintainers may be needed to keep room for permanent teeth when kids lose their primary teeth too soon due to decay or injury. Pediatric dentists often place these devices but orthodontists oversee their effectiveness and plan subsequent treatments that may include or adjust these initial interventions.
When treating kids, it’s common for both orthodontists and pediatric dentists to be involved so all areas of oral health are addressed. When we create orthodontic treatment plans, we consider things like the risk of cavities, gum health and overall tooth growth. This team-based approach prevents problems and makes sure orthodontic treatment doesn’t impact overall dental health.
When kids have urgent problems with both orthodontic appliances and general dental issues, it’s crucial to coordinate emergency care. We take care of orthodontic emergencies like broken brackets or painful wires, while pediatric dentists take care of tooth injuries, severe cavities and other urgent dental needs. Providers who communicate with each other make sure kids get the right care immediately and without having to deal with different treatment methods.
Sometimes complicated cases require a lot of collaboration between different dental experts to get the best results for kids who are growing. Severe orthodontic problems may finally be helped by Surgical Orthodontics in late adolescence but this requires careful planning and preparation during the earlier developmental years.
Our Ellicott City dental office works with other pediatric dentists in the area to make sure our young patients get the best care possible. We believe this team-based approach gives families the full range of dental care kids need during their critical growth years. Good general dental care and specialized orthodontic treatment together is the foundation for healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. They also create great dental experiences that encourage good oral health habits for life.
We also service the following areas, Howard County, Columbia, Catonsville, Pikesville, Woodlawn, Elkridge, Jessup, Laurel, Fulton, Clarksville, Halethorpe and Hanover MD.