Orthodontics deals primarily with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the jaw and malpositioned teeth. Through the use of corrective devices and interceptive techniques, orthodontic treatments fix the alignment of not only the patient’s teeth, but of his or her whole mouth. Innovations in dentistry have led to an increased awareness of dental health, including orthodontics. Patients young and old now seek out orthodontia, not only as a medical necessity but to improve their appearance as well. Pediatric Dental Group in Honolulu, HI covers a range of orthodontic procedures for children including:

Removable Retainers and Appliances: Retainers are devices that positions patients’ teeth in the right places. Children’s teeth shift as the body grows, but retainers manage this natural shifting. Retainers also close gaps in teeth and fix misalignment in bites (malocclusion). Orthodontists specially fit retainers according to the shape of the child’s mouth.

Space Maintainers: After a child loses his or her baby teeth, it is necessary to keep the space open so other teeth don’t shift into that spot. Space maintainers are custom-made appliances that hold this space open for adult teeth.

Correction of Crowding: Tightly packed teeth cause teeth to become crooked, misaligned or decayed. Reshaping the teeth, extracting unnecessary teeth and enlarging dental arches help correct tooth crowding.

Thumbsucking Prevention/Treatment: Thumbsucking leads to protrusive and tipped back front teeth, open bites and cross-bites. Application of a retainer, crib or habit-breaking guard prevents thumb-sucking.

Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment: This preventative treatment corrects developing problems in the mouth that, if untreated, would become much more severe. By intervening early, the length of later treatment is greatly reduced.

Pediatric Dental Group’s mission is to provide specialized dental care to each child based on his or her maturity, emotional needs and unique mouth, jaw and tooth makeup. The Group fosters an environment that makes children feel good about caring for their orthodontic health. Additionally, as the practice of orthodontics expands, the group stays on top of technological advances.

Children look and feel their best with the right orthodontic and dental care. Call Pediatric Dental Group at (808) 593-8828 (Honolulu) or (808) 245-2131 (Lihue).