Orthodontics for Children: Why It’s Needed and Which Treatments Are Available
Orthodontics for children needs to be planned early and various treatments are available. Below, we explain why and what options are available for parents.
Why Do Children Need Early Orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment for children must be planned early in their development. Why, you ask? In fact, for dental correction to be successful, you need to act early.
Starting at age 7, according to the Quebec Association of Orthodontists (QAO), “your child needs to have regular follow-ups (12 to 18 months) that will help monitor the development of their teeth.”
Moreover, parents might want to bring their children to the orthodontist because of some aesthetic concerns, functional problems, or both.
If it’s only about aesthetics, the orthodontist may suggest a treatment that will offer better alignment.
In that case, it’s worth mentioning that aesthetics and self-confidence are closely tied and that any orthodontic treatment is often welcome.
If it’s a functional concern, the specialist will offer a treatment that will reposition the teeth within each dental arch. There are also other types of orthodontic intervention that address issues such as pronunciation problems, lisp, jaw misalignment, etc.
Generally, parents take their children to the orthodontist between the ages of seven and eleven.
In short, it’s recommended to act rapidly in childhood to identify potential anomalies and monitor the development of adult teeth. When the time comes, it will be easier to start orthodontic treatment and ensure it is comprehensive.
The more we act early in childhood, the better the chances of success. The orthodontist will be able to follow the dental development of the child and do the right things early on and subsequently.
Orthodontics for Children: What Are the Available Treatments?
According to the QOA, there are various treatments that may be necessary for children.
For example, an orthodontist may intervene to correct thumb sucking habits. They will recommend an appropriate treatment, such as first phase Nance appliances.
Their intervention may also be useful in maintaining the empty space open in the event of prematurely losing a primary tooth.
As already mentioned, with appropriate treatment, an orthodontist can significantly improve your child’s aesthetic concerns and self-confidence. This aspect should not be overlooked in their development.
If you notice that your child has speech problems or mispronounces words, an orthodontist could suggest a combination of orthodontic and speech therapy treatment.
Furthermore, premature loss of baby teeth “can cause localized space loss in children with primary dentition” as pointed out by the QAO. An orthodontist may suggest appropriate treatment early on instead of waiting until adolescence, as this can result in considerable costs.
Let’s take it a step further. Orthodontics for children can be especially helpful when jaw growth needs to be normalized. Some treatments can adjust these “bone irregularities” at an early age, potentially avoiding the need for surgery later in adulthood.
As we can see, there are various possible treatments in orthodontics for children. We have highlighted a few of them to give you an idea.
It is important to note that other treatments are available, such as widening the upper arch in order to expand the space available and make room for adult teeth, or improving the eruption pattern to create an optimal articulation environment for the new teeth to fit together, etc.
Your Orthodontist: Your Dental Care Professional From an Early Age
Your orthodontist plays a key role in the dental development of your child. A consultation when your child is around seven years old helps you get all the information you need, learn about the options available, and the best time to begin treatment.
Often, minor interventions are required, but they help you avoid more extensive treatments during adolescence and adulthood.
The Dr. Normand Bach Clinic, in the heart of Montréal, has a long track record. The friendly, professional team will welcome you with the necessary attention and take the time to answer all your questions.
After a comprehensive exam, Dr. Normand Bach will offer you some options for your child and will suggest the best moment to start the orthodontic treatment smoothly. Make an appointment today for a professional consultation.
