February 11, 2024
As a parent, you want your child to have the healthiest, brightest smile possible. Pediatric orthodontics offers advanced treatments to correct bite and alignment issues early, so your child can avoid more invasive procedures later and beam with confidence. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, ideal age and types of pediatric orthodontic treatments to give your child a head start on a lifetime of oral health.
Why Start Orthodontics Early?
Pediatric dentists recommend children see an orthodontist for an initial evaluation between ages 7-10. At this age, orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth, emerging teeth, and bite alignment that will become more difficult and require more aggressive treatments later. Starting pediatric orthodontic treatment like braces between ages 8-14 allows dentists to guide the growth of permanent teeth and jaw bones that are still developing. Doing so prevents more complicated issues and the need for tooth extractions or surgery down the road. Early treatment also shortens the total time in braces and increases the likelihood of a perfect result.
Common Pediatric Orthodontic Treatments
- Clear aligners: Custom clear trays are worn in sequences to shift teeth into better positioning. Preferred by teenagers for invisibility.
- Removable appliances: Devices like Invisalign that are taken out for eating and brushing. Help guide tooth eruption and jaw growth.
- Fixed braces: Traditional metal or ceramic brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires to straighten smiles. Often the final step is after early interventions.
- Expanders and spacers: Devices placed in the palate or between teeth to create room for crowded teeth to shift with additional jaw growth and development.
- Retainers: Worn after treatment to hold teeth in corrected positions as gums, bones, and muscles adjust to the changes long-term.
Ideal Age for Braces
Though some children see benefits from early treatments around age 7-8, most patients undergo comprehensive orthodontics between 10-14 when all baby teeth have fallen out. This allows permanent teeth to be adjusted for several years while bones remain malleable, leading to better outcomes and retention of changes over time. The pre-teen middle school years are ideal for full braces.
The Magic of Pediatric Orthodontics Your child’s smile has the power to build confidence that will benefit them socially, emotionally, and professionally throughout life. Starting orthodontic care early allows your child to reap the rewards of straight teeth for decades to come. With the magic touch of pediatric orthodontics, your child will have a healthy, radiant smile from their first school pictures through their wedding day and beyond!