Expansion
Early orthodontic intervention has become more predominate in modern pediatric dental philosophy. Palate expansion is the process of widening a child’s upper jaw as they grow to make more room for permanent teeth. This is considered ‘Phase I’ in the orthodontic process. Not all children need palatal expansion; however, it is very helpful in children that have crowding and crossbites.
Space Maintainers
Space maintainers are used when children lose their primary (baby) teeth prematurely. They help keep the empty space so that the permanent teeth can come in properly with plenty of unimpeded allocated room. Without maintaining the space in some cases can increase the severity of the orthodontic treatment scope once these permanent teeth have come in.
Myobrace
A Myobrace is an orthodontic option that can aid in the alignment of teeth from an early age. This therapy seeks the balance of the orofacial musculature, molds the jaws, and corrects the functional problems that generate misalignments in the bite.
Myomunchee
The Myo Munchee was designed as a chewing device that stimulates muscle activity and encourages proper jaw development. The Myo Munchee offers age related sizes made of soft, medical grade silicone. Shaped like a mouthguard, with a handle attached, the mouthpiece is soft, but durable, with lots of silicone prongs, which massage the teeth and gums. Approximately 10 minutes of daily chewing exercise, children and adults can improve the tone and function of muscles of the lips, face and jaws. The Munchee also encourages lip closure, correct resting tongue placement & swallow pattern and promotes nasal breathing. See additional information about the product at their website www.myomunchee.com.
Holistic Team Approach
Do you ever wish that your child’s various healthcare providers could communicate better between themselves on your behalf to ensure your child is receiving thoughtful, comprehensive care? We recognize the value when your doctors talk to each other and correspondence between offices. Dental Care 4 Kids works closely with several providers of all specialties. Dr. Waters has close relationships with the area’s top orthodontists, oral surgeons, endodontists, ENTs & anesthesiologists. As one of the premier providers in our area to offer lip-tie & tongue-tie treatments, Dr. Waters works with pediatricians, speech therapists, lactation consultants and chiropractors to ensure the long-term success of tongue and lip-tie procedures.
Sleep Disordered Breathing
Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) refers to a range of nighttime breathing issues in children, from snoring to obstructive sleep apnea. These disruptions can impact behavior, growth, and overall health. Common signs include mouth breathing, restless sleep, snoring, bedwetting, daytime sleepiness, and trouble concentrating. During your child’s visit, we assess airway development, oral structures, and sleep history. We look for signs of enlarged tonsils, narrow dental arches, or mouth breathing that may indicate SDB. If concerns arise, we coordinate care with specialists to ensure your child receives the appropriate treatment early, supporting better sleep and healthy development.
