If your children have problems with crooked teeth or develop an incorrect bite, they need to undergo orthodontic treatment, which is prescribed taking into account the age and complexity of the problems that have arisen.
What is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is the process of correcting malocclusion and other anomalies in the position of the dentition with the help of special devices. 6-7 years is the most optimal age for a child for the appointment of such procedures. It is at this age that you need to consult an orthodontist or pediatric dentist for an oral examination. Furthermore, you have no reason to worry, a preventive examination will allow you to timely identify violations of the dentition and the onset of caries.
If your child has anomalies in the position of their teeth, your doctor will prescribe special procedures. As well as explain what is included in the orthodontic treatment that is optimal for your child. Most children start treatment between the ages of 9-14.
Experienced dentists recommend starting orthodontic correction of kids’ dentoalveolar anomalies before the final formation of their permanent teeth. In the future, the treatment process can be more lengthy and problematic.
Correcting malocclusion and various disorders in the development of teeth in childhood. Special orthodontic appliances and devices are used:
- plates (for correcting the shape of the palate in young children from 4 years of age);
- trainers (silicone trainers);
- various types of braces;
- special caps for fixing the jaws during a night’s sleep;
- polymer aligners.
In modern dentistry, a variety of devices are used to correct abnormal occlusion in children. Each device is designed for specific purposes:
- prevention of habits that provoke the development of malocclusion (control of the position of the tongue);
- expansion of the upper jaw arch;
- normalization of the function of the masticatory muscles.
Basically, in pediatric orthodontic treatment, conservative methods of correcting the incorrect position of the dentition are provided. Although for special indications, surgical intervention can be prescribed.
Timely correction of the occlusion allows you to avoid possible complications associated with diseases of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract, as well as with the occurrence of various speech defects.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
The duration of the treatment process depends on the complexity of the anomaly and the type of orthodontic appliance used. Modern types of fixed braces are a popular device for correcting underbite in children of different ages, but they have several disadvantages:
- Elements of braces contribute to the accumulation of plaque (it is difficult for children to observe oral hygiene while at school);
- There are restrictions on the use of certain foods and solid foods, which are difficult for parents to control.
The most modern method of correcting dentition anomalies in childhood and adolescence is the use of polymer aligners.
