Orthodontic Evaluation

First Visit 

We look forward to meeting you and your child at their first visit! The first orthodontic consultation appointment will allow the orthodontist to get to know you and your child and understand what your goals are when considering orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist will do a thorough clinical examination and may take orthodontic records if it is determined that your child is ready for treatment at this time. These records include x-rays, photographs, and a 3D scan of the teeth, and allow the orthodontist to do a detailed analysis to develop a customized treatment plan. 

Early “Phase I” Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by the age of 7, which allows us to evaluate growth and development and determine if early phase I treatment might be beneficial. This phase of treatment typically happens around ages 7-9, when baby teeth are still present. When necessary, early treatment enables the orthodontist to manage the eruption of developing permanent teeth and monitor jaw growth, streamlining future treatment once all permanent teeth have emerged. Two-phased treatment, if recommended, prepares your child for a seamless and effective orthodontic experience, optimizing treatment outcomes by aligning treatment precisely with their growth stages. 

We are pleased to offer the convenience of comprehensive dental care under one roof at our office. With pediatric dentistry and orthodontics seamlessly integrated, our patients benefit from continuous monitoring, whether they require early treatment or simply observation until the time is right. By having our orthodontists in house, we can optimize the timing of treatment and conveniently schedule appointments at the same time as regular cleanings and check-ups.

Comprehensive “Phase II” Treatment

Once all permanent teeth have emerged, patients are ready for a comprehensive orthodontic assessment. This treatment not only focuses on aligning the teeth but also on guiding the proper growth of the face and jaws to establish a harmonious bite. At Bright Healthy Smiles, we provide a range of treatment options, including metal braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign, and various functional appliances. Our team will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that helps your child achieve their desired smile.

Space Maintainers

There are times when a young patient may lose a baby tooth prematurely. In these instances, it is important to evaluate the patient for possible space maintenance since the baby teeth act as natural space holders for the developing adult teeth. The orthodontist will be able to determine if a space maintainer appliance will be needed to hold the space for the future eruption of the adult tooth.

Adult Orthodontic Treatment

At Bright Healthy Smiles we don’t only treat children, but we also treat adults! Many of the parents of our younger patients also receive their orthodontic treatment with our team. We are thrilled to be able to offer the convenience of having both the parent’s and the child’s visits scheduled on the same day.