What Age Should a Child Begin Orthodontic Treatment Frisco, TX

Clear Aligners

In recent years, clear aligners have become a commonplace orthodontic treatment. These removable trays have some advantages over traditional braces. Patients can take their aligners out to eat, brush, or attend special events. Aligners are discreet and nearly invisible. As a result, they are a popular option for teens.

But aligners are not right for everyone. Most dental providers recommend aligners exclusively for older teens and adults. Patients must be responsible and disciplined when using aligners. Younger patients may not be ready for this level of responsibility. Aligners can fix mild-to-moderate problems, but they are not right for severe orthodontic problems. If the patient has complex dental needs, traditional braces might be a better choice. Our team can discuss clear aligners in more detail.

Warning Signs of Orthodontic Problems

Many parents wonder whether their child will need braces. The dental provider can offer an in-depth evaluation. During routine checkups, the provider takes measurements and examines the child’s bite. They can also provide a referral for an orthodontic evaluation.

All children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. The provider may perform this evaluation in the office, or they may refer the child out. Ask the dental team what to expect during an orthodontic evaluation.

Certain risk factors can increase a child’s chances of needing orthodontic care. Some childhood behaviors can also be a warning sign of underlying orthodontic problems. Parents should talk to the dental provider about the following:

Thumbsucking
Extended pacifier use
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth-breathing

Parents should keep an eye on their child’s mouth. As a child grows, parents might notice:

Crooked or misaligned teeth
An uneven bite (crossbite)
Jaw cracking or creaking
An overbite or underbite
Gaps between teeth

Some of these issues may resolve on their own. But if a parent notices any changes in their child’s mouth, they should call a dental provider right away. Early intervention may reduce a child’s risk of needing braces later on.

Other Orthodontic Treatments

Braces are not the only way to fix an orthodontic issue. In some cases, the dental team may recommend retainers, rubber bands, jaw splints, headgear, or palate expanders. If a child has severe issues, surgery may be required. Our team can review the patient’s options and make a decision about treatment.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Children can not receive first braces until their permanent teeth have erupted. Many children can begin to receive interceptive orthodontic care around age seven. As permanent teeth shift into place, the dental team can explore other treatments. Many children receive braces around age 11-13. Orthodontic treatment can continue until the patient is in their late teens.

Children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, an orthodontist can spot developing problems. The provider can also recommend interceptive treatments and plan for future orthodontic care.

Each patient is unique. Our orthodontist takes a close look at your child’s mouth to determine what kind of care they need. We help parents explore their treatment options and make an informed decision.

Some teenagers may be eligible for clear aligners. These discreet, removable appliances can correct many orthodontic concerns. But clear aligners are not right for every patient. Sometimes, traditional braces are a better choice. Our orthodontist can determine whether your child is a candidate for clear aligners.

It is not always possible to avoid braces. Genetic factors can influence jaw size and shape. Sometimes, children develop dental problems without warning. But lifestyle factors can also play a role. Risk factors for orthodontic problems include:

Thumbsucking
Extended pacifier use
Extended bottle-feeding
Sleeping face-down
Poor dental hygiene

Changing these habits may reduce your child’s risk of needing braces, and early intervention is vital. Ask your orthodontist what changes you can make at every developmental stage.

Definition

Definition of Orthodontic Terminology

Interceptive Orthodontics

The correction of potential malocclusion by using usually removable appliances to guide the eruption of teeth so they end up in their ideal position.

Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing refers to when someone primarily breathes from their mouth instead of their nose.

Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic appliances have multiple forms that can help treat malocclusions, irregularity with the teeth, and disproportionate jaw issues.

Orthodontic Brackets

A small metal, ceramic, or porcelain attachment that is bonded directly to the teeth that serve as the fastening point for an orthodontic archwire.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the specialty branch of dentistry that deals with preventing and correcting teeth and jaw irregularities.

Overbite

An overbite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the upper teeth jut out over the lower teeth, covering them and causing other issues.

Palatal Expanders

Palatal expanders are devices that gradually widen the upper jaw to create more space in a child’s mouth.

Phase One Orthodontics

Phase One orthodontics is orthodontic treatment that is performed before the permanent teeth have erupted.

Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking refers to an oral practice common among children where they suck on their thumb out of habit in a way that causes dental problems.

Tongue Thrust

A tongue thrust is a reflex in which the tongue thrusts too far forward when swallowing, typically leading to the malocclusion known as open bite.

Testimonials

Trusted Orthodontic Patient Reviews

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I have recently completed my orthodontic treatment with Dr. Brandon Price and his team at Price Family Orthodontics, and I could not be happier with the results! This was my second time around with braces (after a problem with my retainers resulted in my teeth shifting back), and from my first visit to the office, I could tell this was going to be a very different experience. In other offices where I had consultations, I felt I was viewed as nothing more than a pile of dollars. Dr. Price, however, made me feel my treatment and satisfaction were going to be as important to him as they were to me.

Having been a middle school teacher for the past 15 years, I am constantly around students wearing braces. A conversation with one of those students convinced me that I should take the plunge and get myself some ‘real’ braces, since I wore Invisalign the first time. I have seen many different approaches for interacting with children during my time as an educator, some being more effective than others. A relatable style for working with kids is a special gift, and I truly believe it could be said that you either ‘have it’ or you don’t…

On many occasions, I’ve sat in the chair next to kids as Dr. Price worked, and I’ve always been impressed with the rapport he has with them. To some people, this might seem trivial compared to the quality of the orthodontic work itself, but as a father, I know I only want professionals working with my daughter who are focused on her comfort as well as treatment. Dr. Price is himself a family man, and it definitely shows in his rapport with young people!

An accident in my childhood had left me with one top central incisor that was noticeably shorter than the other, and it had always been something that made me feel self-conscious. As we neared the end of my treatment, Dr. Price gave me the option of polishing my teeth so they would match. I was AMAZED with the results! He is an absolute artist with his tools, and the results exceeded my expectations! In short, I highly recommend Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco just off 121 on Independence (near both McKinney and Plano). The amount of personal attention, combined with skilled professionalism that you or your child will receive, are of the highest caliber. I have received many compliments on my new smile, and I’m so happy I did it!

Price Family Orthodontics is AMAZING. They deserve more than a 5 star rating! I have truly enjoyed Dr. Price, his wife Amy and his entire staff for their superb patient care and making me feel right at home in their lovely office. Dr. Price is very knowledgeable and highly skilled utilizing state of the art technology throughout my treatment. His quality of work is incredible. I got my ceramic braces off ahead of schedule! Plus had some laser contouring done for the perfect finishing touch. I am extremely HAPPY with my results and highly recommend Dr. Price and Price Family Orthodontics.

When we moved here, one of our kids already had braces. We shopped around and found that Dr Price not only had the best prices, but he was clearly the most open to working with us even when she had a different kind of braces than he typically uses. He did an amazing job and my daughters smile is beautiful! The office was always able to schedule withing a reasonable amount of time and the staff is so kind, I consider them all friends! Since then, both myself and my husband have had Dr Price improve our smiles! Of course we are thrilled with the outcome! He is very knowledgeable and makes sure he does the best job possible. He also prioritizes your concerns and desires as a patient! Definitely the best ortho!

The most incredible staff! Everyone made my daughter feel completely at ease and comfortable. My child is actually excited about getting braces after having such a wonderful experience.

My sister and I have both been going to Price Family Orthodontics for over a year! I feel like I have made a new family here—I always feel so welcome, and they always want to know what I am up to! The process of getting braces is never fun, but Price Family is definitely the best at making it a smooth process! I just finished my final retainer check and will miss coming here, but I will still stop by and visit just because everyone is so awesome!

My son was in braces two years and my daughter is currently a patient with Dr. Price. Dr. Price has a great bedside manner. He was very patient with my 13-year-old son, as he lost brackets and was generally an un-ideal patient! I appreciated his mercy and sympathy. I found his pricing very reasonable. He is very professional and knowledgeable.

We have been seeing Dr. Price for the last two years, first for my daughter and now my son. He and his staff are so friendly with my kids, and he really cares about their treatment. I trust that he won’t do any unnecessary treatment, and wants to do what is best for the individual. I highly recommend him for any orthodontic treatment.

Two of my children are currently receiving orthodontic treatment from Dr. Price. The visits are efficient and we have never had a long wait. Dr. Price and his staff are warm and friendly and willing to take whatever time is necessary to answer questions and address my concerns. I know that Dr. Price will only recommend treatment he feels is necessary and helpful for the long-term benefit of the patient. From my kids’ perspective, Dr. Price and his assistant Ginger genuinely care about them and how they are doing. My kids also LOVE his unique incentive program that rewards them for good dental hygiene and for setting and achieving goals in their life. I don’t have to push them to do what is needed because they are motivated by his reward system. We have been very happy with Price Family Orthodontics.

I take both my children to Dr. Price after going to see another orthodontist in the local area for a consultation. What impressed me right up front was that he wasn’t going to rush and place braces on my daughter when it wasn’t the most opportune treatment time for her versus just putting braces on her for a quick sale. If you are considering treatment, I would recommend visiting Dr. Price first! He does offer in-house financing and payments can be made monthly for parents who are wondering how to budget treatment.

We love Price Family Ortho for so many reasons! Dr. Price gives thorough, detailed treatment and has excellent training in his field. He really cares about his patients, plus never treats you like a number. Dr. Price is fabulous at explaining treatment options to both adults and kids. He makes everyone feel valued and listens to your concerns. Dr. Price is true to his motto ‘live life smiling.’ I highly recommend Dr. Price to anyone needing good orthodontic treatment. My kids love going to their office for the rewards program and being part of the team to make their teeth healthy. The staff involves the kids in being responsible for their treatment. I love what my kids learn there. And I love that I don’t have to nag them to take care of their teeth now.

Dr. Price is a man of great integrity. You would never have to worry with him that he is recommending a treatment primarily for his financial gain. He has state-of-the-art equipment and is extremely knowledgeable in the field. He and his staff are very warm, friendly, and easy to feel comfortable around.

Dr. Price is thorough and passionate about providing the best orthodontics for each individual. We have three family members in braces (soon to be four) with Price Family Orthodontics, and are fully confident about their future smiles. The office staff is also the BEST. Thank you PFO!!!

Frisco, TX

What Age Should a Child Begin Orthodontic Treatment