At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, families will find a modern dental office featuring glass walls, orange dental chairs, a desk with a monitor, and a framed seaside painting—an ideal setting for children’s orthodontic care.

Children’s Orthodontist St. Augustine FL

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, a children’s orthodontist wearing blue gloves examines a young child’s teeth as the child sits in the dental chair with their mouth open.

Give Your Child a Lifetime of Smiles

Your child needs straight teeth and properly shaped jaws for a healthy, long-lasting smile. While the perfect age for orthodontic care varies, Dr. Mark Komforti and the American Association of Orthodontists suggest a first visit by around age seven.

What is Early Treatment?

Early orthodontic care at Happy Smiles Orthodontics can stop or intercept potential dental problems before they develop further. Early care may shorten, simplify, or reduce the costs of future treatments. In some cases, Dr. Mark Komforti can achieve outcomes that might be harder to accomplish once the face and jaw have completed growing.

When is the Best Time for Treatment?

While the age for kids to start braces may differ, orthodontic treatment at Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine often begins between the ages of 9 to 14, as some orthodontic issues are easier to address when caught early.

Role of a Children’s Orthodontist

A children’s orthodontist focuses on diagnosing and addressing dental problems in kids from infancy to adolescence. Unlike pediatric dentists who handle general dental care, orthodontists specialize in correcting crooked teeth or jaws, tracking long-term development, and using orthodontic appliances like braces, retainers, or aligners to ensure proper alignment.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, involves addressing dental issues in their early stages to avoid more complex problems later. The benefits include:

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, a children's orthodontist in gloves uses dental tools to clean a child's teeth as they sit in the dental chair.

Preventing severe
dental issues

A properly aligned smile helps improve overall self-image while preventing oral health issues.

Improving appearance
and confidence

Starting care early can save discomfort, money, and treatment time later in life.

Enhancing oral health

Straight teeth are simpler to clean, reducing chances of cavities and gum infections.

Benefits of Children’s
Orthodontic Treatment

Oral health a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. It goes beyond just achieving an attractive smile—it’s about keeping your mouth healthy and free from diseases or complications. Here are practical tips to help you enhance your oral health and hygiene.

Improved Oral Health and Hygiene

Orthodontic care promotes overall wellness by maintaining a healthy, disease-free mouth. Habits to practice include brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Enhanced Speech Development

Aligned teeth improve pronunciation and speaking ability. Good oral hygiene, nutrition, and regular check-ups also aid better speech progress.

Prevention of Future Dental Issues

Regular brushing, flossing, lowering sugary food intake, and routine dental cleanings help avoid problems like cavities or gum disease.

Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem

A confident, radiant smile boosts self-esteem and leaves a lasting positive impression. Achieving this requires good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and a balanced, healthy diet.

Understanding Children’s Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic appliances are essential tools used by orthodontists to correct teeth and jaw alignment issues. Each type is specifically designed to address unique dental concerns. Below are some of the most commonly used orthodontic appliances:

Braces

Braces include brackets fixed on each tooth with a connecting archwire.

Aligners

These are clear, plastic trays that fit over the teeth.

Retainers

These are used after braces or aligners to keep the teeth in their new position.

Space maintainers

These are used when kids lose baby teeth early to hold space for adult teeth.

Importance of Early Evaluation

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests a first visit to the orthodontist by age seven. Spotting problems like overcrowding or bite issues early can prevent bigger dental complications.

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, two children's orthodontists wearing gloves and protective glasses examine a child's teeth as she sits in the dental chair with her mouth open.

Treatment Process

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 often used after treatment to maintain results.

A smiling child with braces gives a thumbs up and holds a pink toothbrush against a beige background, highlighting the confidence gained at Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL.

Appointment Duration and Frequency

Orthodontic appointments vary based on the appliance used or the dental condition being addressed. For example, braces need adjustments every 4-6 weeks, while aligners are replaced every two weeks. Appointments usually take 30 to 60 minutes. Overall treatment can last from six months to three years or longer.

Common Orthodontic
Issues in Children

Some frequent concerns treated at Happy Smiles Orthodontics include:
At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, a children’s orthodontist wearing protective masks and gloves examines a young boy's teeth as he sits comfortably in the dental chair, smiling.

Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite and Spacing Problems

Overbite: Upper teeth overly extend over lower teeth, affecting chewing or speech.
Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth, leading to chewing problems and jaw pain.
Crossbite: Some upper teeth rest inside lower teeth, leading to uneven wear or potential gum problems.
Spacing Problems: Gaps or too many teeth in one area can cause speech or cleaning troubles.

Crooked or Misaligned Teeth

Misaligned teeth, often caused by genetics, prolonged thumb-sucking, or injuries, can make proper cleaning difficult. This increases the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease over time.

Crowding or Spacing Issues

Crowding happens when there isn’t enough room for teeth to align properly, making it harder to clean them thoroughly and increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay.

Thumb Sucking and Other Oral Habits

Thumb sucking is a common habit in young children; however, when it continues for an extended period, it can lead to misalignment of teeth and structural changes to the roof of the mouth.

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children

Orthodontic appliances are devices used by dental professionals to address alignment and spacing issues in the teeth and jaw. Each appliance is tailored to correct specific dental concerns effectively. Below, we explore four commonly used types of orthodontic appliances:
A smiling boy with short dark hair and traditional braces, dressed in a brown polo shirt and standing against a plain white background, showcases the results achieved at Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL — a trusted children’s orthodontist committed to creating confident smiles.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces consist of metal brackets that are affixed to each tooth and connected by an archwire.

Components

Brackets, archwires and ligature elastics.

Benefits

Effective for severe misalignments, durable and suitable for a wide range of dental issues.

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, a young person with long hair and glasses confidently smiles while holding clear aligners in both hands after visiting the children’s orthodontist.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable, custom-made trays made of transparent plastic that fit snugly over the teeth.

How They Work

Use consistent pressure to gradually move teeth, with new aligners replaced every two weeks.

Advantages

Discreet, removable for eating and cleaning and convenient for oral hygiene.

Displayed on a white surface are two pink orthodontic retainers, a metal adjustment tool, and an open pink plastic case—essential items recommended by Children’s Orthodontists at Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL for use with functional appliances.

Functional Appliances

Functional appliances are specialized orthodontic devices created to correct problems associated with jaw growth and alignment. 

Types

Twin Block, Bionator and Herbst appliances.

Benefits

Can improve jaw function and facial aesthetics, preventing future dental problems.

A young girl with long blonde hair proudly smiles indoors, showing off a colorful yellow-and-blue striped retainer—thanks to the expert care at Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL.

Retainers

Retainers are used after treatment with braces or aligners to maintain the alignment of teeth.

Types

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

Benefits

Essential for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment and a lasting smile.

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, a children’s orthodontist wearing a mask and gloves talks to a young girl sitting in the dental chair with her guardian in a modern office.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention

Interceptive orthodontics takes a proactive approach to treating dental concerns during a child’s growth phase, addressing problems while the jaw is still developing. Early intervention helps prevent more serious dental issues in the future while also improving appearance and promoting better oral health. For children aged 6-10, this is the optimal time to correct issues like crossbites and crowding, as their jaw is still growing and easier to adjust. Between the ages of 11-15, when most permanent teeth have emerged, braces become an effective option for resolving alignment problems.

Finding the Right Pediatric Orthodontist

Choosing the right orthodontist for your child is essential to ensure they receive exceptional care tailored to their needs. Focus on finding an orthodontist with advanced training in orthodontics and specific experience working with children. It’s also important to consider practical factors, such as the office’s location, flexible hours that fit your schedule, and the overall cost of treatment, including available payment plans or insurance coverage. Taking the time to evaluate these aspects carefully will help ensure that your child receives high-quality care and enjoys a positive and comfortable orthodontic experience.

At Happy Smiles Orthodontics in St. Augustine, FL, patients receive expert dental care similar to the attentive examinations performed by a children's orthodontist, where dentists use gloves and specialized tools under bright lights to assess oral health.

Conclusion

Happy Smiles Orthodontics emphasizes the significance of early orthodontic evaluations for children, recommending an initial visit by the age of seven. Early intervention allows for the timely detection and correction of potential issues such as overbites, underbites, or crowding, helping to prevent more severe dental problems as the child grows. Through personalized treatments like braces or retainers, children can achieve optimal oral health, increased confidence, and more straightforward orthodontic care in the future. Dr. Mark Komforti offers expert care in a comfortable and child-friendly environment, ensuring a positive experience for every young patient.

FAQ

What age should a child go to orthodontist?

It’s great that you’re prioritizing your child’s dental health! According to the American Association of Orthodontists, a child should have their first orthodontic visit around age seven. While this might seem early, it helps identify potential issues before they become more serious. Keep in mind, an initial visit doesn’t always mean immediate treatment—it’s mainly for monitoring their growth and development to ensure everything is on track.

Can a 6 year old see an orthodontist?

Absolutely! A 6-year-old can visit an orthodontist. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists encourages a first check-up no later than age seven. An early visit allows orthodontists to identify any problems with jaw development or alignment of emerging teeth. Bringing your child for an evaluation at this age is a proactive step toward a healthy and confident smile.

How painful are braces for kids?

It’s completely normal for kids to feel a little discomfort or soreness when they first get braces or after adjustments. This mild pain happens because braces are working to move teeth to their correct positions. However, the discomfort usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. After the initial adjustment period, most children adapt quickly and barely notice their braces. The temporary discomfort is manageable and well worth the outcome of a beautiful, healthy smile!