Orthodontics
in Richmond, VA
Orthodontics
in Richmond, VA
When most people think of orthodontics, they picture teens or adolescents wearing braces. But did you know that orthodontic concerns can be identified much earlier? At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic services designed to guide healthy jaw development from an early age.
Dr. North collaborates with Dr. Mayssa Salti, a board-certified orthodontist she's worked with since 2017. Together, they offer specialized orthodontic solutions for children and teens in Richmond and the surrounding communities, providing the highest level of care. Our goal here at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry is to lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful, and confident smiles.
The Importance of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment does much more than straighten teeth. Properly aligned teeth are much easier to clean effectively, reducing your child's risk of tooth decay and gum disease. An aligned bite also supports healthy jaw development, promotes the development of an ideal airway, reduces the risk of abnormal tooth wear, and can even support speech development. Starting orthodontic care at a young age gives your child the best chance at a healthy, functional smile into adulthood.
Phase I
Early Orthodontic Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends scheduling a child's first orthodontic evaluation around age seven. But why so early? At this age, enough permanent teeth have emerged to allow Dr. Salti to identify any developing concerns with the bite, spacing, airway development, or jaw development. Early intervention, known as Phase I orthodontic treatment, takes advantage of your child's ongoing growth to guide the teeth and jaws into better alignment, preventing minor concerns from becoming more complex.
Phase I or interceptive treatment is not necessary for every child, but for those who need it, it can significantly simplify or even eliminate the need for more involved orthodontic treatment down the road. Signs your child may benefit from early intervention include the following:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Thumb sucking beyond early childhood
- Jaw shifting or clicking
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crossbite, overbite, or underbite
Phase II
Teen Orthodontic Treatment
Phase II orthodontic treatment typically starts around age 12, when all your child's permanent teeth have come in. Because your teen is growing and developing at this stage, their jawbone is highly malleable and responsive to treatment, producing the best outcomes.
Whether your child has completed Phase I treatment or is beginning orthodontic care for the first time, Dr. Salti will develop a personalized plan recommending the ideal orthodontic solution to address your child's unique needs.
What Are the Different Orthodontic Treatments Offered?
The following is a look at the orthodontic treatments we offer here at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry:
Did you know that orthodontic care is not just for children? At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we also offer orthodontic evaluations for parents who have completed a dental visit within the last six months with no active cavities or periodontal disease. If you have been considering aligning your teeth with Invisalign or braces, ask us about it at your child's next appointment.
Orthodontics for Children Near Me in Richmond, VA
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to helping every child and teen achieve a healthy, aligned, and confident smile. Dr. North and Dr. Salti bring years of experience and a shared passion for outstanding dental care to every patient they see together. Whether your child needs early interceptive treatment, clear aligners, or traditional braces, we are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.
We invite you to call or text us at 804-215-8600 to schedule your child's appointment or request one by following this link today!