Transform Your Smile with Milwaukee's Top Orthodontists

Yes. Griffin Orthodontics treats patients of all ages – children, teens, and adults – at our West Allis and Oak Creek offices. For children, we offer early evaluations (usually around age 7) and treatments like palatal expanders or early-phase braces to guide jaw growth and make future corrections easier. Teens can get traditional braces (with options like clear or LightForce braces) or clear aligners like Spark for a nearly invisible option during high school years. Adults are also welcome – it’s never too late to improve your smile, and we provide discreet treatment choices such as ceramic braces or Spark Clear Aligners to fit adults’ lifestyles. Our team personalizes treatment plans for each age group to ensure the best results and a comfortable experience.

Children may need a palatal expander to correct issues such as crossbite, crowding, or impacted teeth. These devices help align the upper and lower jaws, create space for crowded teeth, and prevent future dental complication.

When braces are first put on, or after adjustments, your child might experience some soreness or discomfort for a few days as their teeth begin to shift. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods. Most people adapt quickly and find the discomfort to be temporary.

Your child may need a palatal expander to correct various orthodontic issues, including:

1. Crossbite correction
2. Alleviating dental crowding
3. Improving breathing and airway function
4. Widening a narrow upper jaw
5. Creating space for erupting permanent teeth
6. Potentially avoiding the need for tooth extractions

Palatal expanders are most effective when used during childhood, before the upper jaw bones fuse completely. Palatal expanders play a crucial role in early orthodontic intervention, addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns in growing children. By gradually widening the upper jaw, these devices create the necessary space for proper tooth alignment and bite correction. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the complexity and duration of future orthodontic treatments, potentially saving time and costs in the long run. Additionally, palatal expansion can have positive effects on a child’s overall facial development, breathing patterns, and even speech clarity. While the prospect of using an orthodontic appliance may seem daunting, the long-term benefits of palatal expanders often outweigh any temporary discomfort, setting the foundation for a healthy, well-aligned smile that will last a lifetime

Dental insurance coverage for orthodontic services can vary significantly depending on the specific insurance plan. Generally, orthodontic services, which include treatments like braces, clear aligners, and retainers, are designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. Here are some key points to consider:

– Coverage Variability: Not all dental insurance plans cover orthodontic services. It’s essential to review your dental plan materials carefully to understand what is included and what is not.

– Types of Treatments: Orthodontic services may include traditional metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, and retainers. These treatments can be for both health-related and cosmetic reasons.

– Eligibility and Limits: Some dental plans may have specific coverage limits, such as a maximum amount covered per year or a lifetime maximum for orthodontic treatments. Additionally, there may be waiting periods before coverage begins.

– Discounts and Networks: If orthodontic services are not covered, some plans may offer discounts if you use an orthodontist within their network. It’s also beneficial to check if your preferred orthodontist is part of the plan’s network to maximize savings.

– Supplemental Plans: If your primary dental insurance does not cover orthodontics, you might consider supplemental dental plans that can help reduce the cost of these treatments.

In summary, while some dental insurance plans cover orthodontic services, it’s crucial to review your specific plan details to understand the extent of the coverage, any limitations, and potential discounts available. Please review patient information section or contact us for more information.