Young kids many times need help with their smile development. In our practice, we utilize lots of time tested and scientifically based appliances that create great smiles for your kids. Of course, each person is unique and special, and we treat you accordingly, but these special tools allow us the opportunity to guide the development of the jaws, teeth, muscles and soft tissue that incorporate our smile.
Some of the most common appliances are called expanders (sometimes referred to as spacers). Each one is custom made for the patient from a simple impression or mold of your teeth. When placed, it gives us an excellent way to help the teeth and jaws grow to their pre-determined size and shape. Expanders are orthodontist's way of overcoming many of the civilization changes that have occurred over many decades. Our diets, sleeping habits, even the toys we give our children to play with effects the growing smile. As orthodontists, we utilize the different tools out there in a customized approach to make sure we get great results.
While the tools may appear to be the same, it is their application in the right situation that makes all the difference. Proper use of expanders, spacers, braces, retainers, etc makes up our entire Growth and Guidance system as we manage the eruption process for your kids. And our experience with these tools and the great relationships we have in the community with other providers (ENT's, Speech Therapists, Chiropractors, Dentists, Massage Therapists, Allergists, Pediatricians, Pulmonologists, etc) helps us lead you down the right path.
We have chosen a few pictures to show you these appliances at work. Enjoy!
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