Orthodontic Treatment in Children

Orthodontic Examination and Treatment in Children

At the First Orthodontic Examination Around Ages 6-7:

  1. If baby teeth are lost early, their spaces should be maintained with fixed or removable space maintainers until the permanent teeth erupt. (You can watch the related video in the "Videos" section.) This prevents the permanent tooth from becoming impacted or erupting towards the cheek or lip.
  2. Skeletal problems are identified at this age, and families are informed about the necessary treatments (e.g., lower jaw protrusion).
  3. If an upper jaw deficiency is detected, using a simple device like a face mask for at least six months at this age can significantly improve the position of the upper jaw.
  4. Jaw narrowness can be easily corrected using fixed or removable screw expanders. These appliances can be customized in different colors to help children adapt more easily. For example, boys may prefer their favorite team colors, while girls can choose pink, purple, glittery, or Barbie-themed designs.
  5. If teeth are in crossbite, they should be corrected immediately with removable appliances. If the lower front teeth are slightly ahead, a simple treatment lasting a few months can correct the problem.
  6. Open bite problems caused by prolonged pacifier or bottle use, or habits such as thumb-sucking, can be treated with habit-breaking appliances.

At the Orthodontic Examination Around Ages 10-11:

  1. Treatment of skeletal problems should begin at this stage. For boys, the orthodontist may suggest waiting a little longer. Growth-modifying appliances such as headgear (external devices) and functional appliances like bionators are used to guide jaw development.
    • If an upper jaw deficiency was not detected and treated earlier, a face mask can still be effective in correcting the position of the upper jaw at this age.
  2. Fixed orthodontic treatment typically begins at this age. Brackets and wires are attached to the teeth to gradually align them.