PEDIATRIC ORTHODONTIST WHITE PLAINS
Entrust Your Child’s Treatment to the Finest
It’s estimated that approximately 45-50% of children have some form of malocclusion or orthodontic issue that may require intervention. At Sokoloff Orthodontics, we take care of young patients and provide treatment specific to their needs. As a premier pediatric orthodontist in White Plains, you can be confident in Dr. Michael Sokoloff’s expertise and love for his patients.
What is a Pediatric Orthodontist?
Pediatric orthodontists specialize in guiding the growth and alignment of tiny teeth and developing jaws, ensuring that every child’s smile blooms beautifully. They combine their orthodontic expertise with a compassionate and child-friendly approach, creating a positive and supportive environment for young patients to receive proper care.
UNDERSTANDING EARLY TREATMENT
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
While orthodontic treatment can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal window to start for the best results and minimal time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends the initial orthodontic evaluation occur at the first signs of orthodontic issues, ideally no later than age 7.
At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not always be necessary, but a vigilant examination can help us anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Why Age 7?
At the age of 7, the first adult molars typically erupt, establishing the back bite. During this crucial phase, our orthodontist can assess front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, erupting incisors can signal potential issues such as overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles.
When should I schedule my child’s first evaluation?
If your child is under the age of 7 and you observe any concerning dental or orthodontic issues, don’t wait until their 7th birthday or a dentist’s recommendation. Take proactive action the moment you notice a problem, regardless of their age.
Recognizing the Indications for Pediatric Orthodontic Care
Some of the most important warning signals that it might be time to consider pediatric orthodontic treatment include:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Evident facial imbalance
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Persistent thumb-sucking or pacifier use
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Protruding front teeth
- Crossbite or open bite
- Speech difficulties
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Low self-esteem related to smile or appearance
- Family history of orthodontic issues
Advantages of Interceptive Treatment
Interceptive treatment can yield some of the most direct results, including:
- Creating space for crowded, erupting teeth
- Promoting facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Minimizing the need for tooth removal
- Shortening the overall treatment time with braces
- Reducing the possibility of large treatment costs in the future
Why Treat Malocclusions?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can lead to a range of problems, including:
- Crowded teeth can be challenging to clean properly, potentially leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
- Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
- Openbites can contribute to tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
- Misaligned teeth can cause a person to be self-conscious when they smile.
In essence, orthodontics does more than create a beautiful smile; it promotes better overall health.
Introducing Two-Phase Treatment
Two-phase treatment is an orthodontic approach designed to address complex dental and jaw issues in children, offering a comprehensive solution for their evolving smiles. This treatment strategy is typically recommended for children starting around the age of eight or nine, depending on their individual needs.
Phase 1: Building the Foundation
During Phase 1, which typically lasts from 10 to 14 months, our orthodontist employs various orthodontic appliances such as braces, fixed appliances, removable devices, or a combination thereof. The specific appliance choice is tailored to meet your child’s unique requirements.
Often beginning while the child still has baby teeth, Phase 1 treatment serves the following purposes:
- It addresses early dental and jaw issues, ensuring that problems are corrected before they become more severe.
- It creates space and alignment for emerging permanent teeth.
- It lays the foundation for a healthier and more stable smile as your child grows.
The Interim Period: Monitoring Growth and Development
Following Phase 1, there’s typically a period of observation and growth monitoring. This interim phase allows the orthodontist to assess how the child’s permanent teeth are coming in and how their facial and dental structures are developing. It provides valuable insights for planning the timing and approach for Phase 2.
Phase 2: Refining the Smile
Phase 2 of the Two-Phase treatment usually begins during the tail end of the preteen years, typically between ages 11 and 12. This phase, which can last anywhere from 12 to 20 months, focuses on further refining the smile and ensuring that it develops naturally and harmoniously.
During Phase 2:
- Orthodontic appliances are used to fine-tune tooth alignment and bite.
- Any remaining dental or jaw issues are addressed to achieve optimal results.
- The goal is to create a beautiful, functional, and stable smile that will last a lifetime.
Early Treatment Excellence
Dr. Sokoloff, along with Dr. Matt Campbell, specializes in early orthodontic treatment, and they follow the recommendations of the AAO. Having treated many young patients, Dr. Sokoloff’s expertise ensures that your child receives the right care at the right time.
A Comprehensive Approach
Beyond creating beautiful smiles, Sokoloff Orthodontics recognizes the importance of addressing malocclusions with a child’s overall well-being. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, understanding that a healthy smile contributes to confident and happy little ones.
Treatment is as easy as 1-2-3!
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Schedule a consultation.
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Receive a treatment plan
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Start your child’s treatment with us.
Your Partner in Pediatric Orthodontics
At Sokoloff Orthodontics, we invite parents to partner with us as your pediatric orthodontist in White Plains and allow us to nurture their child’s dental health. Dr. Sokoloff, Dr. Campbell, and our dedicated team are here to provide not only outstanding orthodontic care but also guidance, support, and trust every step of the way.