Serving Children, Teens & Adults

Everyone in San Tan Valley deserves outstanding orthodontic care and a beautiful, healthy smile. At Peterson Family Orthodontics, we proudly offer a full range of orthodontic care for children, adults, and everyone in-between.

Kidds braces San Tan Valley

Children

Children 7-10 Years Old Should Have A Check-Up

Wondering if your child needs braces? Kudos to you for being an awesome parent, because you’ve come to the right place! Every child age 7 and older should be screened by a professional orthodontist, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. But don’t worry! Most kids this young don’t need orthodontic treatment. Dr. Peterson just wants to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaw and see if there are any major problems he can nip in the bud before the growth phase is over.

Sometimes simple treatments like limited braces or an expander can prevent bigger issues down the road. All observation visits are free, so you’ve got nothing to lose! We promise to take excellent care of you and yours every step of the way.

When Will My Child Need Braces?

The age kids need braces varies, but most children receive orthodontic treatment between the ages of 9 to 14. The best thing to do is to bring your child in for a complimentary check-up once they are 7 so Dr. Peterson can advise you as to the ideal time to begin treatment. Getting a check-up early allows Dr. Peterson the best chance to:

  • Help correct harmful oral habits if they exist
  • Guide proper jaw growth
  • Move permanent teeth into a more aesthetic position
  • Give your child confidence that teeth can be straightened over time

Signs Your Child May Need Early Treatment

There are some signs you can look for as a parent that may indicate that your child may need early orthodontic attention. Some of these signs include:

  • Difficulty biting or chewing food
  • Consistently sucking on thumbs or fingers
  • A jaw that is too far back or forward
  • Misplaced, blocked-out or crowded teeth
  • Teeth that protrude
  • Top and lower teeth that meet in an abnormal way
  • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching

Issues like those illustrated in the following picture should be referred to Dr. Peterson for a full evaluation. If your little tike has any of the problems shown in the following images, please bring them into Dr. Peterson for a free observation visit.

Florence Orthodontics

Teens

Will My Teen Need Braces?

Let’s face it, being a teen can be difficult. During the teen years, life can be confusing for both children and parents. But achieving the perfect smile doesn’t have to be. We’ll guide you through the process every step of the way!

Simply schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Peterson and we’ll make sure you understand everything from the financials, to treatment length, to how to care for your smile once it’s complete.

How Long Do Braces Take?

While every case is different, most teens end up wearing braces or Invisalign for 1-2 years. Having braces or Invisalign is something that most teens expect, and many want it in order to fit in with their peers.

Peterson Family Orthodontics confidently treats cases of all severity, so don’t ever think your child’s smile can’t be improved. Just come on in to our San Tan Valley office and we’ll explain all the options available to you and your teen.

My Teen’s Teeth Look Pretty Good, Are Braces Really Needed?

Maybe…maybe not. Even if your teen’s teeth look straight and their bite looks natural, there may still be some underlying issues that could cause problems for your teen when they become an adult. To make sure there aren’t any concerns, it’s best to bring your teen into Dr. Peterson for a complimentary observation visit.

Teens who receive and complete orthodontic treatment experience the following benefits:

  • Less prone to wear and tear, tooth trauma, and tooth chipping
  • Teeth are easier to keep clean, which saves on dental costs down the road
  • The chances of developing gum disease are largely reduced
  • Properly aligned teeth and bites help teens to chew properly, which helps them to digest their food better
Taylor 3

Adults

It’s My Turn for a Fantastic Smile!

As an adult, it’s very common for that beautiful smile you once had as a teenager to shift. Or maybe you never had the opportunity for braces when you were young. Most adults want that perfect smile, but they may be worried about how it will look or what it will cost when they already have their own children in braces.

Well, we have good news! Dr. Peterson offers many types of braces to fit a look you’re comfortable with and a budget you can handle. In fact, we offer special financing plans for parents who already have another family member in treatment with us. Come in today for a complimentary consultation to learn about all of your options and get you on the path to having a perfect and happy smile. You deserve it!

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment As An Adult

Aside from having a perfect smile which builds confidence, here are several other reasons why getting orthodontic treatment as an adult is a good idea:

  • Helps to prevent or improve periodontal problems
  • Allows dentists to better restore missing teeth
  • Teeth function improves
  • Oral health improves overall
  • Dental problems can be avoided or reduced, thus saving you money

Problems to Watch For in Adults

Adults can experience problems that may be improved by orthodontic treatment. If you have any of the following issues and would like to improve your smile, come in today for a complimentary consultation. Dr. Peterson will explain your options and create a treatment plan that is customized for your situation.