Ortho Screenings

Ortho Screenings in Wake Forest

A variety of tooth and jaw issues open up the door to orthodontics in a growing child. Drs. Mulnick & Nguyen may point out that your child's baby teeth appear crowded, or the relationship between the jaws isn't ideal. While not generally the time for treatment, it may help you prepare for the possibility of future corrective care. As permanent teeth start to appear, usually around age 6, Drs. Mulnick & Nguyen monitors the process further and helps you decide if early orthodontic treatment makes sense.

Although the majority of cases involve teenagers, braces can play a role for some kids in their earlier years. Since permanent teeth are typically larger than baby teeth, space may need to be opened with the gentle force of braces. This allows teeth to move into place properly, helping avoid more extensive treatment later.  

A narrow jaw or a large overbite may create a similar dilemma. Guiding jaw growth while your child's developing can make a tremendous difference in the long-term outcome. Once the growth stops in teen years, the only corrective measure often involves surgery...always a good scenario to avoid when possible.

Contact Us Today
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

5-Star Reviews

    “One of the most notable assets of GFD is their commitment to the latest techniques for Dental care and treatments”

    Anonymous

    “The staff is friendly, courteous, and professional. They also included some technology that I hadn't seen used before in a dental office”

    Ruth T.

    “A pleasant experience from check-in, exam, cleaning, and check-out.”

    Melissa B.

    “I am always impressed each time I visit the practice. The team is always professional and courteous and great at putting your mind at ease, which is not always easy at a dental appointment.”

    Anna A.

    “I wouldn't go anywhere else to get my dental work done!”

    Mia D.

    “Gentle Family Dentistry has been my dentist for 16 years. They do an awesome job cleaning my teeth as well as performing any emergency dental work.”

    Robin C.

The Usual Track

Many youngsters benefit the most from orthodontics after baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth move into place. This classic case may start in the early teen years, leaving a nicely aligned and highly functional set of teeth going into adulthood. The length of time spent wired-up can vary, but average treatment time often falls around two years.

A variety of methods allow orthodontic treatment to solve nearly every possible scenario that appears, but successful treatment relies on good patient compliance. Wearing elastic bands consistently, keeping follow-up appointments for adjustments, and practicing outstanding home care can lead to a positive outcome. This commitment involves frequent preventive visits with your hygienist as well, a strategy that helps avoid cavities around brackets. The Gentle Family Dentistry team specializes in helping our orthodontic patients enjoy a successful outcome: a gorgeous, healthy smile.