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What Are the Benefits of Adult Braces?

November 28, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

With around one million people wearing adult braces, they are nothing to worry about. Plenty of people have undergone dental work to ensure they get the best smile they can achieve. Although this is not the only benefit, are you aware of all the ways adult braces can help you out?

Below, we expand on the different things in your life that will improve if you seek out braces for adults. By the end, you should be ready to find a dentist that will work with you to give the person in the mirror a better smile.

Improved Image

Receiving adult braces is a step towards having a flawless smile that you can be proud of. If you grew up with misaligned teeth, you know how they can affect your self-image and make you feel worse about how you look.

A trained orthodontist can work with you to straighten your teeth, giving you the look you always wanted.

Better Oral Health

Straighter teeth are not only good for your image. They can also help out when it comes to your mouth’s hygiene.

If your teeth do not line up, it can be much harder to clean or brush them. This can often lead to a buildup of bacteria which can then cause issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. Thus, by getting adult braces, you can reduce how likely it is that you will need future dentist work due to problems that might occur.

Healthier Jaw Functionality

If your teeth are misaligned, your jaw will not work the way it should. Over time you may have more trouble with chewing, or the action of enamel sliding over enamel may cause wear on some teeth. This would not be the case if your teeth lined up as they should.

By wearing adult braces, an orthodontist can start to move your teeth to a position where this will not occur.

Several Options

These days, wearing braces is not limited to traditional metal implants. Instead, you have a large number of other options available.

If you want something more discreet, you can investigate clear ceramic braces or even a set made from a tooth-colored material. For those who can afford it, Invisalign is famous for offering an almost-invisible option.

Confidence and Self-Esteem Boost

By undergoing an adjustment to your teeth, you can start to feel much more content or confident about your looks. People are likely to start noticing that you smile more because you are no longer anxious about how they might judge you. Be comfortable with the person you are and give yourself a smile that will draw people in.

Get Adult Braces

With everything you have learned, there is every chance you are now investigating adult braces for yourself. If you are in the Yuba City, California area, we can help you out.

We provide comprehensive dental care, including braces, for many people in the area. If you want to know more about how to achieve perfectly-aligned teeth, pick up the phone and call us today.

3 Benefits of Choosing Invisible Braces

October 28, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Right now in the United States, more than 4 million people are wearing braces. That includes more than 1 million who are adults. This statistic highlights the popularity of wearing braces at any age.

Thanks to the advancements within dentistry and, specifically, orthodontics in recent years, it has never been so quick and easy to achieve perfectly aligned teeth. Today, a large percentage of people wearing braces are patients with invisible braces such as Invisalign.

If you are considering getting braces, or perhaps your child is, there are many benefits to choosing invisible braces. In this blog post, we will highlight 3 of these advantages. Let’s get started!

1. Enhanced Discretion

When people think of traditional metal braces, discretion is not a word that is readily associated with them. Metal braces consist of prominent brackets and wires. These stand out and can be offputting for many people.

Unlike metal braces, invisible braces are virtually invisible when worn. They are made from clear, transparent plastic material, making them barely noticeable to others.

Whether you’re a teenager worried about the appearance of braces at school or an adult professional looking to maintain a polished image, invisible braces allow you to straighten your teeth without drawing unwanted attention.

2. Comfort and Convenience

Compared to traditional braces, invisible braces also offer a higher level of comfort and convenience. As they are custom-made, they snugly over the teeth. This helps to reduce the chances of discomfort or irritation.

Unlike metal brackets and wires, which can rub against the inside of the mouth and cause sores, clear aligners are smooth and gentle.

Another great benefit is that invisible braces are removable. Wearers can take them off when eating, drinking, or cleaning their teeth.

This flexibility means wearers can continue to enjoy their favorite foods without worrying about dietary restrictions. This is often a concern with traditional braces.

3. Reduced Treatment Time

Invisible braces often result in shorter treatment times compared to traditional braces. For example, with Invisalign braces, treatment can take as little as 6 months. Most people require less than 2 years of treatment.

The use of advanced computerized planning and technology allows for precise tooth movement. This results in more efficient progress toward the desired smile. Generally, it is necessary to wear invisible braces for at least 22 hours a day for effective treatment.

Benefits of Choosing Invisible Braces

The bottom line is that invisible braces offer several significant advantages over traditional braces. This makes them an increasingly popular choice for orthodontic treatment. They are a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth without drawing attention.

If you are looking for an invisible braces orthodontist in Yuba City, California, your premier choice is Yuba City Orthodontics. Dr. Larson and his team provide the very latest technology in orthodontic treatment. We cater to people of all ages, including children, teens, and adults.

To learn more about the best invisible braces, contact our team today. We look forward to helping you realize a great new smile.

5 Braces-Friendly Recipes to Try

September 28, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Approximately 4 million people under the age of 18 wear braces. Although braces come with plenty of benefits regarding dental health, it’s no secret that they can be inconvenient. This is especially true when finding the right foods to eat.

We’ve put together a brief guide on braces-friendly food recipes you can try this summer. Let’s dive in.

1. Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers

These tasty skewers are easy to make and a perfect braces-friendly meal.

All you need is some boneless chicken breast, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt. Cut the chicken into cubes and marinate it in the lemon juice for about 30 minutes.

Then, thread the pieces onto wooden or metal skewers and grill them until they’re cooked through. Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables or a salad.

2. Veggie Hummus Wraps

Vegetable and hummus wraps make great meals that are easy to prepare in advance for busy days. You can get started with hummus, shredded carrots, tomatoes, spinach leaves, and other vegetables of your choice.

Spread the hummus on a flatbread or wrap, then layer all the vegetables inside. Roll it up and enjoy!

3. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These crunchy baked sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to deep-fried potatoes that are also easy on braces maintenance. Start by preheating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and slicing a large sweet potato into fries.

Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. You can enjoy them as-is or dip them in a sauce for extra flavor.

4. Fresh Fruit Salad

Fruit salads are always a hit when it comes to summer meals, and you can make them as simple or as complicated as you’d like. Start by washing your favorite fruits — anything from berries and pineapple to melon and mango will work.

Cut up the fruit into chunks and toss them together in a large bowl. You can even dress it up with some yogurt or honey. This will be a delicious and healthy way to enjoy your meal.

5. Greek Yogurt and Berry Smoothie

Smoothies are great for a cool snack or breakfast on the go.

For a braces-friendly version, blend Greek yogurt, frozen berries, almond milk, and honey. This creamy smoothie is full of flavor and makes a great option for when you’re in a hurry.

If you’re feeling up to it, you can also add in some spinach or other leafy greens for an extra boost of nutrition.

Keep Braces-Friendly Food in Mind

At first, preparing braces-friendly food can seem daunting. With the right recipes, you can make tasty and nutritious meals that are easy to eat with braces. Keep these recipes in mind, and you’ll have a great summer full of delicious meals!

Looking for more information about what we can do? Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

5 Questions to Ask Your Child’s Orthodontist

August 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Visiting an orthodontist is an important part of your child’s dental care. Whether they are suffering from crowding, crooked teeth, or other issues, an orthodontist can help create a plan for their treatment.

If you’re getting ready to schedule your child’s first orthodontist appointment, keep reading. We’re bringing you a few questions to ask your child’s orthodontist.

1. What are our treatment options?

If you’re visiting an orthodontist, it’s likely that you already know that your child needs specialized dental services. If your child’s orthodontist says that they need to get braces, ask about your treatment options. While traditional braces might be the go-to, other options, such as Invisalign, may also be an option.

Your orthodontist will discuss your options with you and help you better understand which might be the best choice for your child.

2. How long will treatment take?

One big question on your mind is likely how long treatment will take.

On average, braces are worn for between 1 and 3 years. But exacly how long your child will need to wear them depends on many factors.

Other treatments, like retainers, can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to work. Talking with your orthodontist can help you get a better idea of what to expect down the road.

3. Are there limitations my child should follow?

One of the most important questions you can ask is what restrictions or limitations your child should follow.

If your child has braces, for instance, there are some foods they’ll need to avoid. This includes food that can get stuck in braces and cause damage.

Some foods to avoid include:

Gum
Popcorn
Nuts with shells
Sticky or chewy candies
Raw apples and carrots

Besides letting you know what foods to avoid, your child’s orthodontist will offer some oral health tips. They’ll show you and your child how to properly care for your braces and your teeth.

4. How often do we need to come in for appointments?

Another important question to ask is how often you’ll need to bring your child in for orthodontic care. Braces need to be adjusted often as the teeth begin to move.

Your orthodontist will let you know when you’ll need to come back, and how often you’ll be back in the future.

5. Will my child need a retainer?

After braces come off, a retainer is often required. This helps to keep your teeth from shifting back.

Your orthodontist will explain your child’s options, including permanent or removable retainers.

Book Your Child’s First Orthodontist Appointment

If you suspect your child needs braces or your dentist has recommended they visit an orthodontist, it’s time to book your first appointment. Finding the best orthodontist in your area can help ensure that your child gets the care that they need.

Dr. Michael Larson of Yuba City Orthodontics specializes in using the latest technology to help children, teens, and adults get the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve. Contact us today to book your first orthodontist appointment.

5 Benefits of Invisalign for Kids

July 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Did you know that 80% of people who wear braces are between the ages of 6 and 18?

Although many people wear braces throughout their lifetime, children are popular candidates because it is easier to deal with straightening your teeth as a child.

There are many different ways to get braces and other treatment options to straighten teeth for children as well. One of the top options is Invisalign for kids.

Read on to learn the top five Invisalign benefits!

1. Low Maintenance

If your child gets traditional braces, this is going to require a lot of care and upkeep. Depending on the age of your child, a lot of his care will fall onto you. Additionally, regular braces require a lot of checkup appointments and tightening sessions.

If you want something that is more low maintenance, Invisalign for children is the way to go. You don’t have to frequent the orthodontist often, and there’s not as much high-maintenance care that goes into it as well.

2. Boost of Confidence

Braces are not necessarily the most confidence-boosting thing to give children. However, with Invisalign, they are more invisible tapirs and others. Because of this, they will be more confident during the duration of the treatment.

This means more smiles and less anxiety!

3. More Comfortable

Traditional braces can be quite uncomfortable because of the brackets. They can be sharp and can rub consistently on your child’s cheeks and lips.

Invisalign is much more comfortable. It can straighten your child’s teeth without the metal brackets and wires that traditional braces have. This means there is limited irritation in your child’s mouth.

4. No Worries About What They Eat

With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about what your child eats. Because they can take out Invisalign to eat, they can still chew bubblegum, bite into apples, and even eat corn on the cob.

With traditional braces, this is not always the case. Eating apples and chewing gum can break or bend a bracket.

5. Easier for Teeth Cleaning

When your child has Invisalign, they are still able to brush their teeth and floss as they would without it. Their teeth will be healthier and more hygienic.

If they had regular braces, it would be much more difficult and time-consuming to floss. Brushing your teeth also requires a specific technique in order to get rid of all of the harmful bacteria that build up underneath.

Benefits of Invisalign for Kids

Now that you have read this guide, you can see how many benefits there are to Invisalign versus traditional braces.

If you are seriously thinking about Invisalign for kids, we want to help you through the process! Here at Yuba City Ortho, we are experts in Invisalign for children.

Ready to get started? You can reach out with any questions you may have before you book an appointment to give your children the smile they deserve!

How Much Do Invisible Braces Cost?

June 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever; the market will grow around 6% annually between now and 2028! Advances in technology and methods mean a beautiful smile is within reach for any of us.

One of those modern treatments you’ve probably heard about is invisible braces. But you might wonder whether they are affordable and a cost-effective choice for you. Read on to learn all about invisible braces cost.

What Are Invisible Braces?

Invisible braces are an alternative to traditional metal braces, which tend to be noticeable when you smile.

Invisible braces use a clear plastic over the teeth that isn’t noticeable to people, even when you give your broadest smile. Sometimes, you’ll see dentists refer to them as clear aligners.

Manufacturers make a custom mold to fit tightly over your teeth to help align them. You’ll regularly change to a newer brace to ensure alignment continues until you finish the treatment.

The result is beautifully straight teeth and no crowding. You can use invisible braces on your top, bottom teeth, or both.

Who Can Use Invisible Braces?

Invisible braces are popular for adults. While unsuitable for children who still have milk teeth, they are an option for teenagers with a complete set of adult teeth.

The Average Invisible Braces Cost

What you pay for aligners will depend on the length and complexity of your treatment.

When an orthodontic dentist does an initial consultation, they will assess your mouth, taking X-rays and molds of your existing teeth to see what they need to do to move and realign those teeth.

Severe crowding or misaligned teeth will take longer to straighten than teeth that only need a minor realignment.

A simple realignment might only need a 6-month treatment which will make it cheaper than if you need a lengthier 3-year treatment plan. What’s more, getting your top and bottom teeth aligned will cost more than if you only want your top teeth treated.

As a ballpark figure, expect the treatment to cost anywhere from $2000 to $10000. Most treatments fall in the region of $4000 to $7000.

Long-Term Costs

The best benefit of aligners is no follow-up or long-term treatment.

Other treatments, such as crowns, only last 10-20 years, but alignment is permanent. Once you’ve paid for the treatment, your only costs are the usual dental checkups you’d have to do anyway.

How to Make it More Affordable

You could spread the costs of payments via installments to make the treatment more affordable. An alternative option is to limit your treatment to your upper teeth only, as these are the ones that are visible when smiling.

Invisible Braces: Next Steps

Before you can get an accurate invisible braces cost, you’ll need to arrange a formal consultation. A dentist will assess your teeth and provide costs and timescales for your treatment.

Now that you’ve read our invisible braces guide, you can take the next step by booking an appointment with our team. Complete this form, and we’ll get our orthodontic team to give you professional advice on achieving that Hollywood smile.

Your Guide to Ceramic Braces

May 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

Only 35% of people have straight teeth without the use of braces, like ceramic braces. Ceramic braces are a type of treatment that work to align your teeth and correct jaw problems. While you may be familiar with traditional metal braces, ceramic ones offer some additional benefits.

If you’re wondering what ceramic braces are and why you should consider them for your treatment, keep reading this braces guide to help you make your decision.

What Are Ceramic Braces?

Ceramic braces function like traditional metal braces. They’re bonded to your teeth for the entirety of your treatment and shift your teeth into a straighter position. The brackets and wiring are all very discreet, so they’re less noticeable than metal braces.

As you visit your orthodontist for adjustments, they adjust the wiring, so your teeth move due to the gentle pressure. Your appointments depend on how severe your case is and how long your orthodontist expects your treatment to be. Ceramic braces effectively work for both children and adults.

Pros of Ceramic Braces

If you’re considering clear braces over metal braces, there are some benefits. Here are some positive things you can expect with ceramic braces.

Discreet

One of the most noticeable benefits is that ceramic braces are more discreet than metal braces. Because the ceramic is tooth-colored, they’re less noticeable. This may be a great choice for adults who work in a professional environment.

They Work

Ceramic braces are powerful, like metal braces. They may be used for complex cases of severe crowding or jaw misalignment. Just because they’re made of ceramic doesn’t mean they cannot do the job well.

Comfort

Metal braces rub against your cheeks, causing irritation and discomfort. Ceramic braces are more comfortable than metal and may not irritate your mouth as often.

Cons of Ceramic Braces

Even with the many benefits of ceramic braces, there are some drawbacks that you need to know.

Fragile

Ceramic isn’t as strong as metal. Because of this, they’re more prone to breaking, which may land you in the orthodontist’s chair more often than you’d like. They also need more adjustments, making your treatment time anywhere from 18-24 months.

Staining

Acidic and darker-colored foods stain teeth, and ceramic braces are no exception. If you’re thinking about getting ceramic braces, you’ll also want to limit certain foods to avoid staining your teeth and brackets. It’s also important to remember to brush and floss food particles from your brackets as well to keep your teeth healthy during your treatment.

Cost

The cost of ceramic braces may be higher than metal braces. While many orthodontists’ offices provide financial assistance and payments for all types of braces, you should know that overall, the cost of ceramic braces will likely exceed metal braces and even clear aligners.

Are Ceramic Braces For You?

Ceramic braces are a great choice if you’re looking for discreet and comfortable treatment. They offer the same reliability and results as metal braces.

Are you ready to get started with braces today? Visit our website to schedule your consultation with our orthodontist today and be on your way toward a more beautiful smile!

Braces for Children: 4 Telltale Signs It’s Time for Your Child to See an Orthodontist

April 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

A recent survey from Cigna shows that 16% of respondents say that their smile hurts their self-confidence. For kids, their self-confidence can make a big impact on their future.

Braces for children help to correct teeth and boost self-confidence.

As children grow, their adult teeth arrive. During this transition, it can be hard for parents to understand if they need to go get braces for kids, or just wait and see. An orthodontist costs money, so you want to make sure that this is an excellent investment at the right time.

For a better sense to know that it is the right time, keep reading. These are the telltale signs to look out for.

When to Get Braces

Before we detail the four major signs, it is important to take note it is never too early. A child’s general well-being comes along with good oral health. It is important that your child has pride in their dazzling smile.

Now, here are the signs you may need braces for children.

1. Crooked Teeth or Crowding

If you see your child has one or two twisted teeth, or his or her teeth are overlapping, these can be a sign of crowding. Often, this results from teeth malocclusion. If most of his or her teeth are permanent ones, seek braces for children to help correct them.

2. Jaw Positioning is Incorrect

It is not easy to find an incorrect jaw position like you can crooked teeth. You may notice it more so when your child has their mouth closed. This can happen if your child has an underbite or overbite.

A way to test it is to ask your child to close their mouth and check the space between their upper and lower teeth. If there is too much space, seek the advice of an orthodontist.

3. Gaps Between Teeth

This is also called diastema. It can happen after their baby teeth fall out. Sometimes, the space is temporary, and it could close when the permanent teeth arrive.

Other times, it can be a sign you should see an orthodontist about braces for kids.

4. Challenges Biting or Chewing

If your child has difficulty biting into food or it is painful for them to bite or chew, seek an orthodontist immediately. Braces can help to correct bites and make eating food more comfortable.

Does My Child Need Braces?

One other consideration is if your child used to suck their thumb. It can make them a potential candidate for braces, as this is a habit that exposes excess pressure on their teeth. Their front teeth can “jut out” too much.

Braces vs Invisalign

There are five main types of braces. You should consult your orthodontist about which type of braces for kids is best for your child. They can explain to you the differences between the following types:

Ceramic braces
Clear aligners (example: Invisalign)
Lingual braces
Metal braces
Self-ligating braces

When comparing braces vs Invisalign, the biggest difference is how they appear. Invisalign will always edge out braces in this category, as they are undetectable.

The challenge with Invisalign is that the patient can remove it. Patients, particularly kids, may not be the best at making sure they comply with how much time they should use them. The patient cannot remove braces, however, and must wear them 24/7.

Braces for Children

If you still have a lot of questions about braces for children, that is okay. Come see us. We are happy to answer them.

We know how changing a child’s smile can change their life. Contact Yuba City Orthodontics right now.

Teeth and Timelines: How Long Does an Invisalign Treatment Take?

March 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

A recent study found that 60% of respondents dislike their smile. If you’re unhappy with your smile and looking for an alternative to traditional braces, consider an Invisalign treatment!

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign consists of aligners to straighten teeth that are clear and removable. This is more desirable for patients who don’t want the noticeable appearance and discomfort of metal braces.

If you’re considering Invisalign aligners, you may be wondering about the treatment timeline.

Keep reading this guide to learn about how long an Invisalign treatment takes.

Assessment

Before starting your Invisalign treatment, you will first receive an assessment by your orthodontist. This will help determine your specific treatment plan for your Invisalign.

You will likely need to take X-rays and moldings of your teeth, so your Invisalign aligners will be custom to your mouth.

Receiving Your Aligners

Once your X-rays and moldings are processed, you will come back to receive your aligners. You will need to wear your aligners 20-22 hours a day and change them every two weeks.

The standard time the straightening process will take is between 12-18 months, and you will need to visit your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks to monitor the progress.

That being said, certain conditions may make the straightening process shorter or longer.

Here are a few conditions that may alter the duration of your Invisalign treatment:

Teeth Gaps

If you have gaps in your teeth, Invisalign treatment will likely take around 18 months to fully work.

However, sometimes Invisalign may not fully solve the problem, and you may require further treatment after your Invisalign treatment.

Crowded Teeth

Others seek Invisalign treatment because they struggle with crowded teeth. This means that your jaw is too small for your teeth to fit within your mouth.

Depending on the severity of your crowded teeth, treatment may take up to a year.

Minor Adjustments

For those who have teeth that are slightly crooked or crowded, treatment may only take 6 months. This certainly isn’t the norm, but it can happen, and results can even show as quickly as two weeks.

Retainers

Invisalign treatment does not stop once you no longer need your aligners. Retainers are the next step in ensuring your teeth stay straight.

Most dentists will advise you to wear your retainer 12-22 hours a day for the first 3-6 months. After that, you can wear them only at night indefinitely.

Most people will stop retainer use at a certain point, but for those who want straight teeth forever, dentists recommend wearing them at night for the rest of your life.

Invisalign Treatment Timeline

This guide filled you in on the typical Invisalign treatment timeline. All in all, treatment length depends on the severity of your case.

While some may be impatient about the length it takes to get your teeth straightened, the end result is definitely worth it!

If you’re looking for a great dental team in Yuba City, CA, Yuba City Orthodontics is here to help!

4 Signs Your Child Is Ready for Braces

February 27, 2023 / Mert / blog / no comments

About four million people in North America younger than 18 already wear braces. In fact, four of every five people wearing braces are minors.

Does your child need children’s braces? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children visit their orthodontist no later than age 7. However, you might have already spotted the signs it’s time to consider braces for your child.

Read on to discover the four signs your child is ready for braces today.

1. Spacing or Bite Issues

Treatment for braces usually begins when your child is between the ages of 9 to 14 (once they start getting permanent teeth). However, your child might need braces sooner if they have spacing or bite issues.

A child’s jawbone is still pliable, meaning their jaw is more responsive to orthodontics. You can ensure a better outcome from orthodontic treatment if they start while they’re still young. For example, you might notice your child has a:

Crossbite
Upperbite
Underbite

For a crossbite, your child’s orthodontist might recommend a palatal expander to widen their upper jaw. If their teeth are overcrowded, their jaw is too small for permanent teeth. Crowding issues can cause alignment issues in the future.

Your child might also have protruding teeth, increasing the risk of chipping, fractures, or other accidents.

If your child has a spacing or bite issue, talk to an orthodontist for child’s braces.

2. Habits Like Thumb Sucking

Most children stop sucking their thumbs between 2 and 4 years of age. However, if your child maintains the habit, it might cause their upper front teeth to protrude forward. They might develop crowded teeth or speech problems as a result.

If your child is older than 4 years of age and still sucks their thumb, consider child braces. Talk to the orthodontist for tips to discontinue the habit, too. For example, you can use positive reinforcement or distractions to help your child break the habit.

3. Mouth Breathing

Has your child started breathing through their mouth? Your child might have cracked lips, snoring problems, or bad breath as well. If these problems sound familiar, consider braces for children.

Otherwise, mouth breathing might change how your child’s jaw is structured. Their risk of gum disease can increase if they don’t seek treatment. In time, gum disease could progress, leading to tooth loss.

4. A Lisp

Your child might also develop a lisp over time if their jaw or teeth aren’t properly aligned. For example, they might struggle to pronounce certain words. It’s likely their upper jaw has narrowed, causing their speech issues.

Talk to an orthodontist for children’s braces. Orthodontic treatment can fix their alignment issues before it develops into more severe problems.

Straight Smiles: Consider Children’s Braces to Remedy These Problems

Do these four problems sound familiar? Consider talking to an orthodontist for child’s braces right away. Children’s braces can fix your child’s alignment issues, improving their smile, ability to chew, and oral health.

Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation appointment for your child. We’re happy to help.