In Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL, six smiling women in black uniforms represent the welcoming spirit of a children's orthodontist as they pose together in front of a Levine Orthodontics sign.

Give Your Child a
 Lifetime of Smiles

Levine Orthodontics
Your child’s teeth and jaw alignment are essential for achieving a healthy, confident smile that lasts. Although the timing for orthodontic care can differ for each child, Dr. Alex Levine, along with the American Association of Orthodontists, advises scheduling an initial checkup by around age seven.

What is Early Treatment?

Starting treatment early at Levine Orthodontics can help prevent or address more serious issues before they arise, potentially making future care quicker, easier and more affordable. In certain situations, Dr. Alex Levine can achieve outcomes during this time that might be far harder to accomplish once the face and jaw have completed growing.

When is the Best Time for Treatment?

The ideal time for an initial orthodontic consultation is around age 7. Although the exact age for braces can differ, most orthodontic treatments in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres typically begin between ages 9 and 14. Certain issues, like underbites, are often simpler to address when treatment starts as early as 7.

Role of a Children’s Orthodontist

Levine Orthodontics
A children’s orthodontist is an expert in identifying and addressing dental alignment issues in kids, from infancy to their teenage years. While pediatric dentists provide a range of general dental care, orthodontists concentrate on straightening misaligned teeth and jaws. They oversee dental development and use tools like braces, retainers, or other orthodontic treatments to promote proper alignment.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Interceptive orthodontics, also known as early orthodontic treatment, focuses on correcting dental issues early to avoid significant complications in the future. The advantages include:

Preventing severe
dental issues

A vibrant, healthy smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting, positive impact on those around you.

Improving appearance
and confidence

Early treatment saves time, money and discomfort.

Enhancing overall oral health

Straightened teeth are easier to clean, lowering the chances of cavities and gum issues.

Benefits of Children’s
Orthodontic Treatment

Levine Orthodontics

Oral health plays a vital role in your overall health and well-being. It’s more than just achieving a bright smile; it’s about keeping your mouth healthy and free from problems or disease. This guide aims to offer useful tips and insights to help you enhance your oral hygiene and maintain better dental care.

Improved Oral Health and Hygiene

Orthodontic treatment contributes to overall health by ensuring a clean and healthy mouth. Essential habits include routine brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly.

Enhanced Speech Development

Properly aligned teeth improve pronunciation and articulation. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene and a balanced diet all contribute to better speech development.

Prevention of Future Dental Issues

Good oral care helps prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. Preventive measures include brushing twice daily, flossing, reducing sugary foods and regular dental cleanings.

Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem

A confident, radiant smile leaves a lasting impression and boosts self-esteem. Achieving this requires good oral care habits, regular dental checkups and a balanced, healthy diet.

Understanding Children’s 

Orthodontic Treatment

Levine Orthodontics
Orthodontic devices are instruments utilized by orthodontists to address issues with teeth and jaw alignment. They are available in different types, each tailored to treat particular concerns. Below are some of the most frequently used orthodontic devices:

Braces

Braces consist of brackets attached to each tooth and linked with an archwire.

Aligners

These are transparent plastic aligners designed to cover the teeth.

Retainers

Retainers are worn after aligners or braces to keep teeth aligned.

Space maintainers

These are used if a child loses a baby tooth early.

Importance of Early Evaluation

The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children have their first orthodontic check-up by the age of seven. Identifying concerns such as misaligned bites or overcrowding early can make treatment easier and help avoid potential issues later on.

At Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL, a young boy smiles in a dental chair while a children’s orthodontist with pink gloves prepares to examine his teeth.

Treatment Process

Levine Orthodontics

Consultation

Includes examination, X-rays and impressions.

Appliance Placement

Orthodontic devices are fitted based on the treatment plan.

Follow-ups

Regular adjustments to monitor and ensure progress.

Retention

A retainer is commonly worn post-treatment to preserve the results.

A gentle oral health check, like an initial evaluation by a children’s orthodontist at Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL, is shown as an adult examines a young boy’s open mouth.

Appointment Duration and Frequency

The length and frequency of orthodontic visits depend on the kind of appliance and the complexity of the dental issue. Braces usually require adjustments every four to six weeks, whereas aligners are swapped out about every two weeks. Appointments typically take 30 to 60 minutes. Treatment time overall can span anywhere from six months to over three years, based on the specific needs of the patient.

Common Orthodontic
Issues in Children

Levine Orthodontics
At Levine Orthodontics, we often address these common orthodontic concerns:
A young child in a white t-shirt, with braces and a bright smile, holds a pink toothbrush and gives a thumbs-up after visiting Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL. The child stands against a plain beige background.

Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite and Spacing Problems

Overbite: Upper teeth overlap with the lower teeth excessively, causing speech or chewing problems.
Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth, leading to chewing problems and jaw pain.
Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth, leading to uneven wear, gum disease and bone loss.
Spacing Problems: Gaps or overcrowding can hinder chewing, speech and oral hygiene.

Crooked or Misaligned Teeth

Resulting from genetics, thumb-sucking habits, or injuries, misaligned teeth may make cleaning harder, raising the chances of cavities and gum disease.

Crowding or Spacing Issues

Overcrowding occurs when teeth lack space, making cleaning difficult and increasing cavity risks. Spacing issues trap food between teeth, leading to decay.

Thumb Sucking and Other Oral Habits

Though common in young children, extended thumb sucking may lead to dental misalignment and alterations to the shape of the mouth’s roof.

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children

Levine Orthodontics
Orthodontic devices are instruments utilized by dentists and orthodontists to improve the alignment and spacing of teeth and jaws. These tools are available in different types, each tailored to resolve particular dental concerns. This guide will explore four widely used orthodontic devices: metal braces, invisible aligners, functional appliances and retainers.
A smiling girl with traditional braces and glittery cheeks, dressed in a striped sweater, confidently holds her hair back against a plain background—showcasing the positive results achieved at Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces have long been a cornerstone of orthodontic care and continue to be the most commonly used orthodontic treatment.

Components

Brackets, archwires and ligature elastics.

Benefits

Highly effective for major misalignments, long-lasting and ideal for addressing various dental concerns.

A smiling girl with long blonde hair stands outdoors, holding and pointing to a clear aligner, highlighting the benefits of visiting Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL for a children's orthodontist.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners represent a modern alternative to traditional metal braces.

How They Work

Apply steady pressure to shift teeth gradually, changing to new aligners every two weeks.

Advantages

Subtle, easy to remove for meals and cleaning and ideal for maintaining oral hygiene.

At Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL, two pink orthodontic retainers, a metal adjustment key and an open pink storage case are shown on a white surface—essential tools for fitting children’s functional appliances.

Functional Appliances

Functional appliances are created to help correct problems with jaw development. They are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers.

Types

Twin Block, Bionator and Herbst appliances.

Benefits

Enhances jaw functionality and facial appearance while reducing the risk of future dental issues.

A young girl with long blonde hair smiles at the camera while holding a blue and yellow dental retainer, highlighting her visit to Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL.

Retainers

Retainers play a crucial role in keeping teeth from shifting back to their previous positions.

Types

Removable (can be taken out for cleaning) and fixed (permanently bonded).

Benefits

Crucial for preserving the outcomes of orthodontic care and ensuring a lasting smile.

A child see children's orthodontist and discuss about the Importance of early orthodontic intervention in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Interceptive orthodontics takes a preventive approach by tackling dental problems early, while a child’s jaw is still developing, which helps avoid more complicated issues later on. Early treatment offers benefits such as reducing the risk of severe orthodontic concerns, enhancing facial appearance and improving oral health overall. The ideal age for addressing challenges like crowding or crossbites is between 6 and 10 years, as the jaw is still growing during this time. From ages 11 to 15, when most permanent teeth are in, braces become effective for correcting alignment and bite problems.

Finding the Right Pediatric Orthodontist

When choosing an orthodontist for your child, it’s essential to evaluate their expertise and credentials to ensure they align with your family’s requirements. Search for an orthodontist with specialized training in orthodontics and a proven track record of treating children. Equally important are practical considerations, such as the clinic’s location, flexible hours and the affordability of treatment, including payment plans or insurance options. By thoughtfully selecting the right orthodontist, you can help your child receive top-quality care and a comfortable, supportive experience.

At Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Lehigh Acres, FL, a children’s orthodontist with a mask and gloves sits beside a smiling young girl holding a stuffed animal in the dental chair.

Conclusion

Levine Orthodontics emphasizes the value of early orthodontic assessments for kids, encouraging visits by the age of seven. Identifying issues like crowding, overbites, or underbites early on can help prevent more complex dental problems down the road. Through customized care options, including braces or retainers, children can benefit from healthier smiles, boosted confidence and easier treatment later in life. Dr. Alex Levine delivers expert care in a friendly, child-centered setting.

FAQ

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What age should a child go to orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children have their first orthodontic check-up at about age seven. While this may sound early, it gives the orthodontist an opportunity to spot and address any potential concerns before they develop into bigger problems. Keep in mind, this initial visit doesn’t always lead to immediate treatment. It’s primarily about monitoring your child’s growth and ensuring their oral development is progressing as it should.

Can a 6 year old see an orthodontist?

Of course! A 6-year-old can absolutely see an orthodontist. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists advises that children should have their initial evaluation with an orthodontist by age 7. This early visit can help detect any concerns with jaw development or incoming teeth. So, if you’re thinking about scheduling an orthodontic appointment for your child, don’t hesitate! It’s a smart move to promote a healthy and confident smile for your little one.

How painful are braces for kids?

It’s completely normal for kids to feel a bit of soreness or mild discomfort after getting braces or following an adjustment. This happens as the braces begin shifting their teeth into the correct position. The upside is that this discomfort usually fades within a few days and can often be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication. Before long, their mouth adapts to the braces and they’ll barely even notice them. While braces might cause some temporary unease, it’s both manageable and doesn’t last long.
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