Orthodontics
Initial Visit
The best time to start the orthodontics process is early. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial screening by seven. However, orthodontic problems can be recognized as early as three or four. Signs include crowded teeth and upper or lower jaw growth discrepancies. Since children differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, Dr. Dharmini’s goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.
As your child’s regular pediatric dentist, Dr. Dharmini will guide you toward the right moment for this initial orthodontics assessment when it arrives.
iTero Technology
We believe advanced technology can make your child’s orthodontic experience faster, easier, and more comfortable (no more mouth full of messy alginate for impressions!). Instead, our pediatric orthodontics department uses modern iTero technology during each step toward straight teeth. Learn more about our iTero Technology.
Braces
Our braces come in three choices:
Metal
We use the Damon System of braces. Instead of binding the archwires to brackets through elastics that cause friction and pressure, the Damon passive slide mechanism keeps the archwires in the bracket while allowing them to move more freely. Bonus: it’s more discreet, easier to keep clean, and faster.
Ceramic
Our Damon Clear braces offer the same technology of the Damon System, but use a translucent ceramic material to make them visually discreet, a great option for teens concerned about cosmetic appeal.
Non-Damon
These metal and ceramic brackets are for those who absolutely love color.
Invisalign Teen/Adult
Invisalign clear aligners are completely removable and virtually invisible. You’ll watch your smile transform before your eyes as you continue to enjoy the sports, activities, and even foods that make you unique. The Invisalign Teen model allows your busy teenager to come in for quick aligner change every two weeks. This option is also great for improved dental hygiene. They simply slip out the appliance before meals and whenever they need to clean their teeth.
For more information on how Invisalign lets you live life uninterrupted, please visit the Invisalign website and give Dr. Dharmini a call to set up a consultation.
Invisalign for Pre-Teens
Most Phase-One treatment (if needed) begins at approximately age seven or eight when the incisors and first permanent molars are fully erupted. Because children are growing rapidly at this time, they can benefit enormously from early treatment. Children also tend to be most eager and cooperative at this age, so Invisalign is very tolerated by the child. Parents love it too because there are rarely any orthodontic emergencies with Invisalign.
Phase-One treatment typically lasts from 12 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the condition. Because Invisalign can be removed, brushing and flossing become very simple rather than having to maneuver around appliances cemented to the mouth.
Accelerated Orthodontics
We understand the frustration that can come from spending years on the orthodontic process, so we offer our patients a speedier solution: accelerated orthodontics. A small, safe, and gentle device will go into the mouth a few minutes each day. It releases subtle vibrations that quicken teeth movement.
For more information please see:
Jaw Surgery
Though we always prefer to stay as conservative and non-invasive as possible with our pediatric/adolescent dental and orthodontic patients, Dr. Dharmini is fully equipped to handle sensitive jaw surgeries when needed.