Assisting Proper Tooth Eruption

At Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, our focus is on preventing dental problems before they start, in a warm, safe, and friendly environment that puts your child at ease. The more potential dental problems that can be prevented at an early age, the less discomfort the developing child or adolescent will have to endure – and the more money you as a parent will save in the long run!

Dr. Jayni emphasizes the importance of proper tooth eruption, both for baby and adult teeth. Proper tooth eruption reduces the risk of tooth decay, maximizes the functionality of the teeth, and helps facial development. Dr. Jayni is happy to discuss early options to prevent and correct malocclusion (the imperfect positioning of the teeth) with our patients and parents

Tooth Eruption Problems

The primary teeth gradually erupt through the gums during the first two and a half years of life. The four front teeth – two upper and two lower – usually erupt first, beginning as early as six months after birth. Most children have a full set of primary teeth by the time they are three years old.

A bite that does not meet properly (a malocclusion) can be inherited, or some types may be acquired. Some causes of malocclusion include missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth, or misaligned jaws. Accidents or developmental issues such as sucking fingers or thumb for an extended time may cause malocclusion. Mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, prolonged pacifier use and thumb sucking are all causes of crooked teeth. These habits limit the development of the child’s jaws and face, resulting in orthodontic problems.

Growth Guidance Appliances

Mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, prolonged pacifier use and thumb sucking are all causes of crooked teeth. These habits limit the development of the child’s jaws and face resulting in Orthodontic problems. These causes cannot be corrected with fixed braces.

Growth Guidance Appliances are an early orthodontic intervention to improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaws, improving favorable facial growth and helping teeth erupt in a straight pattern. Growth Guidance Appliances effectively train the tongue to position correctly in the upper jaw, and retrain oral musculature by exerting light forces to align the teeth.

Call Our Athens Area Pediatric Practice Today!

Our practice offers custom made Growth Guidance Appliances, and many other advanced interventions, to improve your child’s oral posture. Call us to learn more about our early orthodontic services, and the many benefits they can bring to your little one.