As parents, we all want what’s best for our kids. And a straight smile is one of the best gifts you can gift your child. But what if you could get the same results without years spent in metal braces? What if you could actually help your little ones avoid braces or aligners altogether?

That’s exactly what Dr. Juarez hoped to do with her own kids, which is why she began offering preventive orthodontics in our Houston dentist office. Typically, “orthodontics” is synonymous with curative procedures that correct crooked smiles. But preventive orthodontics through HealthyStart™ works to encourage proper oral development so that teeth grow in straight from the beginning.

Read on to learn more about this exciting treatment! Then, if you want to reduce the likelihood your child will need braces later in life, come visit our office for a consultation. Call us at 832-463-1021 to make an appointment.

How It Works

HealthyStart™ uses an FDA-approved dental device that resembles an athletic mouthguard that’s worn while your child sleeps and, in some cases, for short amounts of time during the day. Having your child wear the oral appliance while his or her permanent teeth are still coming in helps promote proper oral development that prevents issues such as crowding, overbite, and dental misalignment — conditions that would require orthodontic intervention later on.

In clinical trials, only seven percent of children who used HealthyStart™ needed braces later in life, and even if they did, it was only for a short period of time. Traditional orthodontic treatment with braces usually takes years two years or longer.

The Benefits of Early Intervention

Usually, getting braces is a teenage milestone. But there are drawbacks to waiting until you’re 13 or 14 to start addressing teeth and bite misalignment.

By this time, a child’s “permanent” teeth have not only fully erupted, but the fibers that attach the teeth to the surrounding gum tissue and bone have sort of “locked” the tooth into its position. This is why so many people who had braces as teens are required to wear a retainer to maintain the results or experience a shifting of their teeth toward their original positions.

Being proactive rather than reactive about teeth alignment means that permanent teeth are more likely to grow in straight — meaning there’s less of a chance your child will need retainers or experience any relapse.

Improved Nighttime Breathing

In addition to its orthodontic benefits, HealthyStart™ has also been shown to open up your child’s airway during sleep to prevent sleep-disordered breathing and sleep apnea. This allows your child to get a better night’s sleep — which can result in improved focus, better grades, and a reduction in ADHD-like symptoms in some children.

Explore Your Options

Dr. Juarez and Dr. Lindskog can help you weigh the pros and cons of preventive orthodontics for your child! If you’re interested in HealthyStart™ treatment, give us a call at 832-463-1021 to schedule a consultation.