Common Orthodontic Treatments for Kids
1. Palate Expanders
Palate expanders are used to address abnormal jaw formation in children, particularly if they have a narrow upper jaw.
The expander gradually widens the upper jaw to create space for adult teeth to grow and helps align the teeth. This treatment is most effective in young children, as their bones are still developing. Older teens and adults may require surgery instead.
A Quad Helix is another type of fixed expander that uses gentle pressure to expand the jaw, taking 3 to 6 months on average.
2. Space Maintainers
A space maintainer is used to keep space open for adult teeth to grow, especially if a child loses baby teeth prematurely.
This prevents the gap from closing too soon, which could lead to more serious issues and expensive treatments later on.
3. Functional Appliances
Functional appliances, like the Twin Block and Herbst Appliance, help correct jaw growth during active growth periods.
They are commonly used to treat malocclusions (bite issues), guiding the jaw into the correct position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, or orthodontic interception, takes place when a child is between 8 to 10 years old, before their permanent adult teeth have fully erupted.
This phase focuses on preventing future dental issues and often serves as a precursor to braces. It can involve simple procedures, like preserving space for adult teeth, or more advanced treatments such as expanders or functional appliances.
Why Is Kids Orthodontics Important?
Early intervention is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome for your child.
By identifying and addressing issues early, we can prevent long-term damage and simplify future treatments.
This approach helps avoid more complex procedures and ensures smoother care.
It can address concerns like crowded teeth, bite misalignment, spacing problems, and jaw irregularities before they escalate.
When Should You Bring Your Child To An Orthodontist?
While it can be difficult to tell if your child needs early orthodontic treatment, orthodontists are skilled at detecting even subtle signs of potential problems.
Not every child will require this treatment, but the Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 8.
This evaluation helps identify any issues early on, allowing for personalized care and monitoring of your child's dental development.
What are the benefits of interceptive treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment offers several advantages, including:
- Correcting jaw position and dental arches
- Creating space for erupting teeth
- Guiding jaw bone growth for better facial symmetry
- Addressing issues caused by habits like thumb sucking, pacifier use, or mouth breathing
- Improving biting, chewing, and overall teeth function
- Enhancing self-esteem and appearance
- Reducing the need for or complexity of future orthodontic treatments
Young children benefit from interceptive treatment because their bones are still developing, making it easier to guide them into proper alignment quickly and efficiently.
What are the signs my child needs orthodontic treatment?
Signs that your child may need early orthodontic treatment include:
- Poor oral habits (e.g., thumb sucking, mouth breathing)
- Overcrowded or misaligned teeth
- Underbites, overbites, or crossbites
- Protruding teeth
- Missing or impacted teeth
Identifying and treating these issues early is essential to prevent them from worsening and requiring more complex interventions later on.
Only a licensed orthodontist can determine if your child needs interceptive treatment.
How Much Does Kids Orthodontics Cost?
The cost of early orthodontic treatment depends on the length and complexity of the treatment needed for your child.
For a personalized quote, it’s best to contact the orthodontic office and book a consultation.
What Can I Expect from My Child's First Orthodontic Appointment?
At your child’s first orthodontic appointment, we aim to create a positive and welcoming experience. Our orthodontists will meet with you and your child, reviewing any X-rays, scans, and addressing any concerns.
With extended appointment times, we ensure there's plenty of opportunity to answer all your child’s questions and make the process as comfortable as possible.
Our goal is to provide the same level of care we would want for our own family.
