When Should Children Have Their First Orthodontic Visit?

Where Can I Find The Best Orthodontist In Franklin Square NY?

Our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment in Franklin Square NY. As a leading orthodontist, Dr. Boral specializes in treating patients of all ages and dental conditions. As a result, we are able to provide thorough and effective treatment that achieves optimal results as quickly as possible.

When Should A Child Have Their First Visit With An Orthodontist?

There is no set age for a child to have their first orthodontic visit. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist around age 7, once their permanent teeth come in. At this age, many issues including uneven bite and overcrowding are apparent and treatable. Starting the process early allows a Franklin Square orthodontist to be able to identify problems and decide the best treatment options available.

What Happens During A Child’s First Visit With An Orthodontist?

first orthodontic visit franklin square nyAt the first visit, a Franklin Square orthodontist examines your child’s teeth, mouth, and jaw. We evaluate a child’s current condition from teeth alignment, bite positioning, chewing functionality, and more to identify any arising problems. Dr. Boral may take X-rays of the teeth and mouth to see positioning and whether any permanent teeth are still coming in. These digital images allow for an orthodontist to determine the best form of orthodontic treatment available to fix the necessary issues.

What Are The Benefits Of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

The goal of early treatment is to intercept any developing orthodontic problems, eliminate the causes, and provide adequate space for future permanent teeth. Some patients require a second course of treatment after all permanent teeth are in to shift teeth into their best positions. An orthodontist may recommend treatment while a child still has some baby teeth for conditions including:

  • Underbites
  • Crossbites
  • Abnormal bites
  • Excessively spaced teeth
  • Overcrowded and missing teeth
  • Pacifier or thumb sucking that is affecting teeth or jaw growth

Finding Out When Children Should Have Their First Orthodontic Visit

In conclusion, our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontics. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding braces, Invisalign, or when children should have their first orthodontic visit in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. Call now (516) 292-6484.

How Does Thumb Sucking Affect Teeth?

What Is Thumb Sucking?

Thumb sucking is a habit and natural reflex for children and infants. Sucking on thumbs, pacifiers, or other objects may create a feeling of security or soothe them to help with falling asleep. Thumb sucking is a stereotypical habit of babies, so it may feel unnatural to intervene. However, breaking the habit of thumb sucking is important to avoid causing developmental issues in the mouth.

How Can Thumb Sucking Affect My Child’s Teeth?

Once a child’s permanent teeth come in, thumb sucking may affect the proper alignment of the growth of teeth and jaw. The intensity of thumb sucking is a factor that determines the level of damage. Some children who are aggressive thumbsuckers may develop problems with their baby teeth early on. The force of thumb sucking can cause teeth to tip forward, which leads to complicated malocclusions such as open bites, crossbites, or overjets. These issues may require the need for orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign later in life.

What Are The Consequences Of Thumb Sucking?

how does thumb sucking affect teeth franklin square nyThumb sucking, similar to pacifiers, may assist very young children develop jaw muscles. However, after that, it quickly becomes an issue. Thumb sucking is a habit that may cause a child to withdraw and ‘zone out’ instead of interacting. While thumb sucking may appear like an innocent habit, the results can affect your child’s health later on in their adult life. The long-term negative consequences of thumb sucking include:

  • Narrowing of the jaw
  • Shrinking the airway
  • Altered breathing
  • Poor swallow patterns
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Hindered speech
  • Abnormal tongue placement

When Should Children Stop Sucking Their Thumbs?

Children usually stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of two and four years old, or by the time their permanent front teeth start to erupt. If you notice abnormalities in your child’s primary teeth or are concerned about your child’s thumb sucking, consult with a Franklin Square orthodontist such as Dr. Boral. Remember, the older a child gets the more difficult breaking this habit can be.

Finding Out How Thumb Sucking Affects Teeth In White Plains NY

Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding thumb sucking or how thumb sucking affects teeth in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (516) 292-6484.

The Truth Of How Alcohol Effects Your Teeth

Where Can I Find The Truth About How Alcohol Affects Your Teeth?

Many patients wonder the truth of how alcohol affects your teeth. Our team at First Class Orthodontics specialize in orthodontic care. As a leading Franklin Square orthodontic office, Dr. Boral is dedicated to providing patients with the necessary knowledge to maintain a healthy smile. As a result, we treat patients of all ages for a wide range of dental needs.

Does Alcohol Damage Teeth?

how alcohol affects your teeth franklin square nyModerate alcohol consumption can be considered apart of a healthy lifestyle. However, alcohol isn’t generally considered “healthy.” Alcohol abuse is the second most common risk factor for oral cancer. The short and long-term effects alcohol has on your mouth, gums, and teeth include:

  • Gum disease
  • Tooth decay
  • Mouth sores
  • Higher plaque levels
  • Permanent tooth loss

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Teeth?

The effect that alcohol has on your teeth is determined by specific factors such as the sugar content, the amount of alcohol, the amount of citrus if you drink with a straw, and other individual factors. Alcohol affects teeth by causing:

  • Staining – the color in beverages comes from chromogens, which attach to tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is compromised by acid in alcohol, which causes the staining of teeth.
  • Dryness – beverages that are high in alcohol cause dryness in the mouth. Saliva keeps teeth moist and helps remove plaque and bacteria from the tooth’s surface.
  • Other damage – tooth damage related to alcohol consumption is increased by chewing ice or adding citrus to your drinks, which can weaken or break teeth.

Finding The Truth Of How Alcohol Affects Teeth

Dr. Boral and our team at First Class Orthodontics are experts in dentistry and orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding how alcohol affects teeth in Franklin Square NY, West Hempstead NY, Valley Stream NY, Elmont NY, and Garden City NY. Contact First Class Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (516) 292-6484.

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