Orthodontic Treatment For Children
admin
July 12, 2019
3:16 pm
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment can fix jaw alignment problems
Gone are the days of having to wait until all of the adult teeth present before undergoing orthodontic treatment. Now, thanks to new technology and research showing the long-term benefits for early treatment, orthodontic treatment can help the developing teeth and jaws.
Early treatment is aimed at encouraging adult teeth to come through in better positions to lessen the amount of work needed at an older age. It can also reduce any damage to the teeth that may occur from their crooked positions.
If early braces treatment is recommended for your child by one of our experienced orthodontists, the treatment will usually occur after the four front teeth have come through. This is usually around the ages of 8 or 9 years.
The type of correction needed will determine the type of braces fitted for your child. Usually there are small square silver (brackets) attached to the surface of the front teeth and sometimes a band around the 6-year-old molars at the back of the mouth. A special wire is connected between the brackets and bands to do the work of moving the teeth.
6 to 12 months with regular adjustment visits
Adjustments made during the treatment period
After the front teeth are straight, your orthodontist will remove the braces and make a retainer to protect that new super smile. The retainer will initially be required to be worn full-time (day and night), but later on it will only be required at night. New teeth will still be able to come down while the retainer is being worn.
It may take a few months or years before we expect to see all the adult teeth in place and arrangements will be made to see you for regular no-charge reviews over the time period.
It is likely that a second stage of work will be needed at the age of 12 or 13, but you'll already have a head start on that winning smile.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child and would like more information, contact us and one of our experienced orthodontists will discuss this treatment.
Have questions about orthodontic treatment for your child? Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you.