As a parent, you want to know that your child’s smile is developing as it should and that if orthodontic treatment is needed, you’re starting at the right time.
At Rochester Family Orthodontics, early evaluations are about understanding how your child’s teeth, jaws, and bite are developing and giving you the information you need to make confident decisions about their care
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7.
At this age, children typically have a combination of baby and permanent teeth, giving an orthodontist an opportunity to evaluate how the teeth and jaws are developing while growth is still occurring.
An early evaluation allows Dr. Wood to establish a baseline, identify concerns that may benefit from attention, and determine whether your child needs treatment now or should simply be monitored as they grow.
Not every child who visits an orthodontist at age 7 needs braces or another orthodontic appliance.
Dr. Wood believes treatment should be recommended when it is appropriate for the individual child. If your child isn’t ready, she’ll explain what she sees, what she wants to monitor, and when she would like to see your child again.
Sometimes, an orthodontic concern is better addressed while a child is still growing. When Dr. Wood recommends early orthodontic treatment, she’ll explain what she sees, why she believes treatment may be beneficial, and what the proposed treatment is intended to accomplish.
Every recommendation is based on your child’s individual development and orthodontic needs.
Most importantly, parents are part of the conversation. Dr. Wood makes it a priority to ensure you understand your child’s treatment options and feel informed before deciding how to move forward.
New experiences can feel intimidating for children, especially when they involve a dental or medical office. That’s one reason Dr. Wood intentionally designed Rochester Family Orthodontics to feel calm, comfortable, and more private than the typical orthodontic office.
Our main treatment area features floor-to-ceiling dividers that provide greater separation between patients, and we also have a private treatment room for patients who may feel more comfortable in a quieter, more private space.
The environment is especially helpful for children who are anxious, have special needs, or simply do better with fewer distractions and a little more personal space.
Our goal is to help your child feel comfortable getting to know Dr. Wood, our team, and the orthodontic experience.
Orthodontic treatment is a big decision for your child, and Dr. Wood believes parents should understand the reasoning behind every recommendation.
As a parent herself, she makes it a point to keep parents informed throughout the process. She’ll explain what she sees, answer your questions, discuss your options, and help you understand not only what she recommends, but why.
You should leave an appointment feeling like you understand what’s happening with your child’s smile and what comes next.
When treatment is appropriate, Dr. Wood creates an individualized plan based on your child’s orthodontic needs and stage of development.
Depending on your child, treatment options may include:
Traditional metal braces
Clear ceramic braces
Clear Aligners
Early orthodontic treatment
Dr. Wood will discuss the options that are appropriate for your child and help your family understand the advantages and considerations of each.
Schedule a free early evaluation with Dr. Wood to learn more about how your child’s smile is developing, ask questions, and find out what, if anything, should come next.
