Tools We Use to Guide Your Child’s Smile at Adirondack Orthodontics
When our doctors recommend early or “Phase 1” treatment, the goal is simple: guide jaw growth and create space for adult teeth while a child is still developing. Because every smile is unique, we select from a variety of appliances to achieve the best result—always keeping comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics in mind.
Expanders (Palatal or Maxillary Expanders)
Used to widen the upper jaw when it is too narrow.
- Corrects crossbites
- Creates room for crowded adult teeth
- Improves the relationship between the upper and lower jaws
Because the bones of the palate are still growing, expansion is most effective in younger patients.
Limited Braces or Partial Braces
Small sections of braces applied to specific teeth.
- Straighten or rotate individual teeth
- Help guide eruption of permanent teeth
- Prepare spacing for future full treatment, if needed
Space Maintainers
Keep space open after a baby tooth is lost too early.
- Prevents neighboring teeth from drifting into the gap
- Ensures proper eruption path for the adult tooth underneath
Habit Appliances
Break thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits.
- Simple, fixed devices discourage habits that can distort jaw growth or create open bites
- Protects teeth and speech development
Invisalign® First
Clear aligner therapy designed specifically for growing children.
- Virtually invisible and removable for eating and brushing
- Gently expands arches, aligns teeth, and corrects bite issues
- A great option for families seeking an aesthetic alternative to traditional appliances
How We Choose the Right Appliance
Your child’s plan begins with digital X-rays and a 3D iTero® scan, giving us a detailed picture of dental development and jaw growth. We then customize a treatment plan that may use one appliance or a combination—always with the goal of setting up a shorter, simpler Phase 2 treatment as your child grows.
Comfort, Convenience, and Support
- Six Capital Region locations: Albany, Latham, East Greenbush, Schenectady, Clifton Park, and Glens Falls
- Evening and weekend hours, plus virtual appointments for busy families
- 0% interest financing and insurance optimization to keep treatment affordable
Next in Our Early Evaluation Series: Phase 1 With Braces or Invisalign – Explore how we decide between clear aligners and braces for early treatment.