Orthodontics for Children

It's best for Dr. Rodriguez-Abrams to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and, if indicated, what is the best time for that patient to be treated.

The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated. When treatment is begun early, Dr. Rodriguez-Abrams can guide the growth of the jaws and guide incoming permanent teeth.

Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems.

Although only a small portion of children need early treatment, those who do benefit immensely from it. This modern approach to more complex problems is known as Two-Phase Treatment.

In other words, for patients with more severe problems, early treatment simplifies later treatment. Contact our Fresno office today to schedule your complimentary consultation. Call us at (559) 434-9999 to get started!

Orthodontics for Teens

This is the most common age for orthodontic treatment if early treatment is not indicated. In fact, more than 50% of all our patients are teenagers.

An attractive smile is a wonderful asset. It contributes to self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image — important qualities at every age, but more so at this stage in life.

A pleasing appearance is a vital component of self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person's general attitude toward life.

Straight teeth help to effectively bite, chew and speak, and contribute to healthy teeth and gums. Properly aligned teeth and jaws may alleviate or prevent physical health problems. As a matter of fact, teeth that work better also tend to look better. An attractive smile is a pleasant "side effect" of orthodontic treatment.

There are psychological aspects that are also important. It has been clinically proven that a beautiful smile leads to higher self-esteem. Confidence generates success. People with beautiful smiles have a lot to be happy about.

We hope that we can help you or your teenager in this uniquely priceless way.