According to the New York State Department of Health, U.S. kids miss 51 million school hours yearly due to dental issues.

Apart from missing school, kids can suffer severe pain and discomfort. Their teeth are still developing, and they may face problems like cavities. One of the leading causes of dental problems among kids is overcrowding. 

It often begins around age 7 when adult teeth start replacing baby teeth. At this stage, the jaw may not grow fast enough to make room for new teeth. Seeing a Vernon Hills orthodontist can help prevent serious issues.

But what orthodontic treatments do they offer? Explore the various ways the best orthodontist in Vernon Hills can help overcome teeth overcrowding.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

Overcrowding often starts when a child’s teeth and jaw are still developing. If not treated early, it can lead to serious dental problems such as:

• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Teeth overlapping or crowding
• Difficulty chewing food
• Trouble speaking clearly
• Difficulty brushing

Early orthodontic care can help guide teeth into the right position. Space maintainers, partial braces, or expanders can create room for permanent teeth. Early treatment reduces the need for extractions or more complicated procedures later.

An evaluation can help determine the best approach. Some children may need simple adjustments, while others require more involved treatments. A Vernon Hills orthodontist can assess your child’s teeth and recommend the right plan.

Treating overcrowding early makes alignment easier, protects oral health, and prevents long-term issues. A straight, healthy smile starts with early care.

Braces for Overcrowded Teeth

Braces work by applying gentle pressure to move teeth into the correct position. Compare different types of braces to determine the ideal one for your child.

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces are strong and effective for severe cases. They use brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth. 

Orthodontists adjust them regularly to guide teeth into the right position. Many patients choose them because they are durable and offer reliable results.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces blend in with natural teeth, making them less visible. They work like metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets.

Many teens and adults prefer them because they are less noticeable. However, they may require more care to avoid staining.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use a sliding mechanism instead of elastic bands. Their design reduces friction and may speed up treatment.

They can also make oral hygiene easier since they collect less plaque. Many patients find them more comfortable than traditional braces.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Your child might be reluctant to wear traditional metal braces (especially if they’re a teenager). They may worry about looking weird or standing out.

Many fear that other kids will make fun of them. Some dislike the idea of food restrictions or difficulty brushing their teeth.

In this situation, clear aligners like Invisalign can be a great option. These tailored trays slowly move teeth into position without using brackets or wires. They are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for teens and adults.

Clear aligners work best for mild to moderate overcrowding. They can be removed for eating and brushing, making hygiene easier.

Unlike braces, aligners have no food restrictions. Treatment time varies based on alignment needs.

A consultation with an orthodontist can determine if clear aligners are suitable. They offer a comfortable and discreet way to achieve a smile transformation while maintaining confidence throughout treatment.

Palatal Expanders for Jaw Growth

A small jaw is a common cause of overcrowding. If the upper jaw is too narrow, permanent teeth may not have enough space. Overcrowded teeth can lead to misalignment and bite problems. 

Palatal expanders can help by gradually widening the upper jaw. They are most effective in children because their bones are still growing. The device applies gentle pressure to encourage jaw expansion, which allows adult teeth to grow properly.

Treatment usually lasts a few months, depending on the child’s needs. Expanding the jaw early can reduce the need for extractions or braces later. It can also improve breathing and speech development.

An orthodontist can determine if a palatal expander is the right choice. Addressing jaw issues early can lead to better long-term oral health.

Functional Appliances for Bite Issues

Overcrowding can sometimes cause bite problems, making chewing and speaking difficult. Misaligned jaws may also lead to discomfort or uneven tooth wear. Functional appliances help reposition the jaw and improve alignment, improving comfort.

These devices are often used for growing children with bite issues like overbites or underbites. They work by guiding the jaw into the correct position over time. Treatment usually begins when a child’s bones are still developing.

Using functional appliances early can prevent the need for more invasive treatments later. They can also improve facial balance and overall oral health. Combined with teeth straightening treatments, they help create a healthier and more stable smile.

Serial Extractions for Progressive Alignment

For some patients, overcrowding starts early due to a lack of space for adult teeth. Serial extractions involve removing baby teeth in a planned sequence, creating room for permanent teeth to grow in the right position. An orthodontist may recommend serial extractions if:

• Baby teeth block permanent teeth from erupting
• Teeth are severely crowded
• The jaw is too small for all adult teeth
• Early removal can prevent complex orthodontic treatments later

Serial extractions may reduce the need for braces by guiding teeth into place naturally. They also help prevent misalignment and bite issues.

Vernon Hills Orthodontist: Your Child’s Path to a Confident, Healthy Smile

If left untreated, overcrowding can cause serious dental issues. The best Vernon Hills orthodontist will provide solutions to create space and improve alignment. Early intervention helps prevent extractions, bite problems, and long-term complications.

Treatment options include braces, clear aligners, and palatal expanders. The right approach depends on the severity of overcrowding and jaw development.

At Graber & Gyllenhaal Orthodontics, we have over 75 years of experience in orthodontic care. Our team has helped over 20,000 patients achieve healthier, straighter smiles.

If you are a parent seeking orthodontic care, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation with our experts today and let’s create the best plan for your child’s smile.