Orthodontics for All Ages

Orthodontic Care for Infants

While your infant won’t be sporting a set of braces or retainers, they will be teething, which can be a difficult time for parents. Our pediatric orthodontists are here to help. Here’s some advice for parents: a gentle massage with a clean finger can help soothe aching gums. A teething ring can also be helpful.

We’ll look at your child’s teeth, gums, and jaws to ensure everything is developing correctly. Our friendly staff will give you tips about cleaning your child’s gums after feeding and taking care of their brand new smile at home.

Orthodontic Care for Toddlers

As babies get older and develop into toddlers, more of their teeth start to come in. This means that their dental care becomes more involved. An orthodontic appointment will consist of a quick oral exam while they sit in the dental chair or on their parent’s lap, whichever one is more comfortable. They will then get a more thorough cleaning to remove any harmful plaque buildup. It is important to do this at least twice a year.

Pediatric orthodontists are especially important at this age, as toddlers can start to develop cavities. We can give these teeth extra protection by applying a dental sealant over them. This involves a thin layer of clear composite resin, which quickly hardens into a barrier that prevents bacteria from harming the enamel.

Fluoride varnish is another dental treatment to consider to help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and it works best when your child is taking good care of their teeth. Just a small amount of fluoride is used, so it is safe for your child.

Orthodontic Care for Children

Once your child gets older, they may start to become more self-conscious about their smile. Bring them in twice a year so we can keep a close eye on their teeth and gums. This will allow us to treat any issues as early as possible as well as remove harmful plaque buildup to stop cavities.

Many children develop cavities, despite their best oral care habits. We can use tooth-colored fillings made of a composite resin to fill these cavities quickly. These fillings will blend in with their smile.

We’ll help provide your child with the best dental products suited for their needs, from toothbrushes to toothpastes to mouthwashes.

Orthodontic Care for Teens

We understand that your teen is busy. They may not want to focus on their orthodontic care, but it’s important. A gorgeous smile can open doors and increase opportunities.

At each visit, your teen will receive a thorough cleaning and assessment of their mouth. If there is any decay or damage, we can offer possible treatment options, such as fillings. We use tooth-colored fillings that blend in with your teen’s other teeth, so nobody will know. If your teen is prone to cavities, sealants and fluoride may also be options, even at this age.

We can also discuss night guards and sports guards for your teen. These appliances can protect their teeth from nighttime grinding as well as prevent mouth injuries while your athlete is on the field or court.

Orthodontics become more important at this age. When your teen needs braces, we can guide your son or daughter through the treatment process with ease. We’ll help ensure they get a straighter and healthier smile so their confidence increases. Metal braces are not the only option, so if your teen is self-conscious, clear aligners are also available. We can assess your teen’s mouth and oral conditions and determine what options are best.

What to Expect

The first visit to a doctor’s office can be nerve-wracking for children. At your child’s consultation,

you’ll get to know our pediatric orthodontists, Dr. Riccio and Dr. Blair, as well as the rest of our team. They’ll help you learn more about orthodontics.

Depending on the age and needs of your child, we will perform X-rays and come up with a customized treatment plan for any issues. We will inform you of any treatment that is needed now as well as any treatment that should be delayed. We will also advise you as to how long treatment will take.

We will address your smile goals and answer any general questions you may have during the initial examination. Depending on your child’s age, we’ll provide them with the appropriate level of attention and care. We make sure that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs and any next steps to take.

Sedation Dentistry

Anxious child? Our pediatric orthodontists can help. Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication called sedatives to manage anxious children or those with special needs.

There are several types of sedation that may be used:

• Nitrous oxide. Often called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is mild and safe. It is given through a mask and it takes effect in about five minutes. Your child will be awake the whole time and may feel happy.
• Oral sedatives. Oral sedatives are taken through the mouth or nose. This medication will make your child drowsy and keep them calm and relaxed the whole time. It starts working in about 20 minutes, so it is taken as soon as your child arrives at our office.
• IV sedation. Intravenous sedation requires a needle to be inserted into your child’s vein. This will give your child general sedation so that they can be unconscious for a longer period of time.

Contact Hinsdale Ortho Today

Orthodontic treatment is not just for teens and adults. The sooner you visit the dentist, the better. Dental problems just get worse with time, so don’t wait to get the treatment you need.

No matter your age, Hinsdale Ortho will help you smile with confidence. We offer high-quality orthodontic treatment in a friendly, welcoming environment. We’re the best orthodontist around — just ask one of our many satisfied patients. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 630-345-8589!