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Astra Orthodontics

About Us

At Astra Orthodontics, each member of our professional orthodontic team is chosen by Dr. Rahimi based upon his or her credentials, chair-side demeanor, and passion for providing the finest in personalized orthodontic care in Houston.
From our front desk staff to our orthodontic assistants, every member of our orthodontic team is dedicated to ensuring the total comfort and satisfaction of each of our patients. If you have any questions regarding your scheduled procedures or your insurance, please ask any member of our staff.
When you become an orthodontics patient you will be seen personally by Dr. Rahimi at every scheduled visit.

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Pediatric Orthodontics: A Parent's Guide to a Healthy Smile

Pediatric orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities in children. As a parent, understanding the importance of early orthodontic evaluation can set your child on a path to a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. It’s not just about aesthetics; properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease, and can also prevent more complex jaw issues in adulthood.

What is the Best Age for Kids’ Orthodontics?

The best age for kids’ orthodontics is a common question, and the answer might be earlier than you think. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. At this age, the back bite is established, allowing a specialist to spot even subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging adult teeth.

This early evaluation doesn’t necessarily mean your child will get braces right away. In many cases, it’s simply about observation and planning. However, for some children, early intervention, often called Phase-One treatment, can be highly beneficial in preventing more serious problems from developing later.

The Key Benefits of Early Orthodontics

The benefits of early orthodontics go far beyond just a straighter smile. Intervening at the right time can have a significant positive impact on your child’s overall oral health and development.

Key advantages include:

  • Guiding Jaw Growth: Correcting issues like a crossbite or underbite while the jaw is still developing.

  • Creating Space: Making room for crowded, erupting permanent teeth.

  • Reducing Trauma Risk: Aligning protruding front teeth that are prone to chipping or injury.

  • Correcting Harmful Habits: Addressing issues like thumb sucking or improper swallowing that can affect dental development.

  • Improving Self-Esteem: Enhancing a child’s smile and confidence at a formative age.

Pediatric Orthodontics

Understanding the Types of Braces for Kids

The types of braces for kids available today are more varied and effective than ever before. While traditional metal braces are still a popular and reliable choice, there are other options. Ceramic braces work just like metal ones but feature clear or tooth-colored brackets, making them less noticeable.

For younger children in Phase-One treatment, a removable appliance or a palatal expander might be used to guide jaw development. The best option will always depend on your child’s specific needs, which will be determined during their orthodontic consultation.

What is Interceptive Orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics, also known as preventive or Phase-One orthodontics, is all about addressing issues early before they become more complex. This treatment aims to “intercept” a developing problem, eliminate its cause, and guide the growth of the facial and jaw bones to create enough space for permanent teeth. You can learn more about the broader field of Orthodontics on Wikipedia. By undertaking interceptive treatment, you can often make later, more comprehensive treatment (like full braces in the teenage years) shorter and less complicated.

Best age for kids' orthodontics

Navigating the Children’s Orthodontic Process

The children’s orthodontic process typically follows a few key stages to ensure the best possible outcome. It begins with an initial consultation where the orthodontist examines your child’s teeth and jaw. If treatment is recommended, the next step involves gathering diagnostic records, such as X-rays, photos, and digital scans or molds of the teeth.

Using this information, the orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan. Once the plan is agreed upon, the orthodontic appliance (braces, expander, etc.) is fitted. This is followed by regular adjustment appointments, usually every 4-8 weeks, to monitor progress and make necessary changes.

Tips for Caring for Braces in Children

Caring for braces in children is crucial for a successful treatment outcome and for preventing issues like cavities or staining. Excellent oral hygiene is non-negotiable. This means brushing carefully after every meal and flossing daily, using tools like a floss threader or water flosser to clean around brackets and wires.

It’s also important to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the braces. Things like popcorn, hard candy, caramel, and chewing on ice should be off-limits. Cutting up harder foods like apples and carrots into small, bite-sized pieces is recommended.

What is the Cost of Children’s Orthodontics?

The cost of children’s orthodontics can vary widely based on several factors. These include the complexity of the dental issue, the duration of the treatment, the type of braces or appliances used, and your geographic location. Phase-One (interceptive) treatment will have a different cost than comprehensive treatment. Most orthodontic offices offer flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable, and many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for orthodontics.

Take the First Step Towards a Healthy Smile

Investing in pediatric orthodontics is an investment in your child’s future health and confidence. An early evaluation provides peace of mind and ensures that any developing issues are caught and managed at the ideal time.

Is your child ready for an orthodontic evaluation? At Astra Clinic, we specialize in creating beautiful, healthy smiles for children in a friendly and comfortable environment. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a lifetime of confident smiles!

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Wednesday : 09:30 - 18:00
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