Orthodontics

In order to provide convenience and a progressive approach to braces, we have integrated an orthodontic program within our pediatric practice that focuses on muscle patterns, habits, and growth tendencies.

At Myers Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we

Offer early-phase and traditional orthodontics
Determine which approach will best suit your child
Have over 30 years experience
Monitor your child's growth and development at each appointment
Provide excellent hygiene care for children wearing orthodontic appliances or braces
Offer your child encouragement and support during the orthodontic process
Have added convenience by combining orthodontic and hygiene appointments

Genetics v. Growth and Development

People often assume that crowded teeth are solely determined by genetics. While genetics do play a part in how the jaws are determined to grow, this has a small influence on straight or crooked teeth. Muscles patterns, habits, and your child's ability to breathe through his or her nose (airway) play a much bigger part. Fortunately, these things can be addressed early while your child is growing and developing.

The Early Phase Approach v. Traditional Orthodontics

The doctors can determine whether an early or traditional approach is best for your child. An early phase of orthodontics can influence your child's jaw and mouth to grow normally. A later phase is often used to straighten teeth; however, a second phase of braces is sometimes unnecessary when a child's jaw is allowed to develop to full potential.

Early phase intervention may need to be initiated as early as 4 years old, although most children begin between the ages of 7 and 8. The window for influencing oral growth and development with early intervention typically closes by age 10. After that, traditional orthodontic methods must be used, often including permanent tooth extraction. Put simply, you can always get straight teeth, but the earlier you start, the more you can influence the form and fullness of the smile. Traditional orthodontics may be initiated at any time after age 12, but the doctors are limited to working with the existing face shape, airway, and muscle patterns unless corrective surgery is performed.

Since we monitor your child's growth and development from the very first visit, you will have the option to use the approach that will produce the best results for your child.

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The Value of Experience

At Myers Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, your child will receive the "smartest" orthodontic treatment planning available orthodontics that addresses not only the aesthetic issues but corrects the effects of abnormal teeth and jaw positioning. Thoroughly planned and worked up, the desired position for the teeth and soft tissue (facial) profile is mapped out before the first wire or bracket is placed.

Dr. Myers has been doing orthodontic treatment since 1974, and his technical expertise and experience using early phase orthodontics is unmatched in the Orange Park area. He uses Zero Base technology that projects computer-generated growth patterns individualized for your child. This program assists the doctor in determining the best plan of action.

We are also excited about our newest technology addition, the NewTom volumetric scanner. This is an x-ray machine that gives a detailed 3-D map of your child's head. The radiation to produce this image is less than traditional orthodontic images and significantly less than a CAT scan. The information we receive will reduce treatment time and allow even better planning up front for where and how we can change form and move teeth.

The Benefit of a Pedo-Ortho Practice

Since we evaluate your child's growth and development at every patient visit, we have a unique opportunity to evaluate your child for abnormal growth tendencies that may cause problems. We will let you know about any developmental concerns and the best time to start correction. Correction often starts with simple exercises at home. Other times it may require orthodontic appliances. See our fact sheet on early signs and causes of abnormal facial growth.

The Convenience of One Office

For your convenience, you may schedule your child's Smile Check-ups in conjunction with his or her orthodontic visits. Our Hygienist is also dual trained as an orthodontic assistant, so she knows how to remove and replace wires quickly for fast and thorough cleanings.

Braces Care (the Video)

This video contains everything you need to know about caring for your braces including information on hygeine, diet, braces parts, emergencies, and retainer care. (Braces Care - the Video)