The orthodontics during childhood It is one of the most important decisions for a child's facial, functional, and emotional development. Although many parents believe it's simply a matter of "straightening the teeth," the truth is that timely intervention can influence a child's breathing, speech, chewing, jaw posture, and future health.
Before going deeper, you can also consult this reference: Mayo Clinic.
Orthodontics during childhood: why early treatment makes a difference
The orthodontics during childhood It's not just a matter of aesthetics. When jaw growth is still active, possibilities open up that no longer exist in adulthood. During these early stages, skeletal abnormalities can be corrected, respiratory function improved, and problems prevented that, if left untreated, require longer or more invasive treatments.
Many parents come to the consultation after reading articles or recommendations on reference websites, but they still have doubts about the right time to start treatment. This is where a professional assessment, such as the one carried out in centers specializing in children's orthodontics like the Dental Clinic Acedo, is key to establishing an accurate diagnosis.
Orthodontics during childhood: signs that indicate a child may need treatment
The signs aren't always obvious. Many parents wait until "all the baby teeth" have fallen out, when in reality early detection is much more effective. Signs that warrant a consultation include:
- Teeth that are slow to erupt.
- Difficulty chewing hard foods.
- Frequent breathing through the mouth.
- Snoring or nocturnal breathing pauses.
- Jaw that “clicks” or deviates when opening.
- Prolonged habits such as thumb sucking.
- Very crowded teeth from an early age.
If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to have a consultation. assessment.
Orthodontics during childhood: what age is most appropriate
Experts agree on one point: the first visit The orthodontic evaluation should be done around age 6-7, This coincides with the eruption of the first permanent molars. At this time, it is possible to analyze:
- The relationship between the maxilla and mandible.
- The presence of dysfunctional habits.
- The way the child breathes.
- The appearance of early malocclusions.
Although not all children need treatment at that age, this initial assessment allows for planning the best time to intervene and prevent future problems.
Orthodontics during childhood: real benefits of early treatment
The benefits of orthodontics during childhood They have been extensively documented and extend far beyond aesthetics. The most relevant include:
- Correction of bone growth.
- Improvement of breathing pattern, especially in children with mouth breathing.
- Reduction of the risk of cavities due to crowding.
- Proper guide to tooth eruption.
- Reduced risk of dental trauma.
Preventing future ATM problems.
Better self-esteem at an early age.
In some cases, early treatment prevents the need for maxillofacial surgery in adulthood. This is especially common in Class III malocclusions or in underdeveloped jaws.
Orthodontics during childhood: most common types of treatments
Depending on the age, the problem, and the objective, there are different devices that are used in the orthodontics during childhood:
- Functional appliances that guide mandibular growth.
- Palatal expanders to improve maxillary width.
- Removable appliances to correct habits.
- Orthodontics with braces for children.
- invisible braces pediatric (a technique that is being used more and more).
One of the most common treatments is maxillary expansion, which corrects breathing problems and helps permanent teeth to erupt correctly.
Orthodontics during childhood: how it influences respiratory and sleep health
One of the most studied areas is the relationship between orthodontics during childhood and improved breathing. In many children, a narrow jaw causes mouth breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, and sleep problems that directly affect their school performance and cognitive development.
By widening the upper jaw or improving mandibular posture, the airways can be enlarged and healthy nasal breathing promoted. These treatments are usually coordinated with professionals in pediatrics, respiratory physiotherapy, or speech therapy.
Orthodontics during childhood: relationship between habits and malocclusions
Some prolonged habits have a direct impact on facial and dental development:
- Sucking your thumb.
- Excessive use of pacifier.
- Tongue interposition.
- Mouth breathing.
The orthodontics during childhood It allows you to control these habits before they cause bigger problems. In many cases, treatment involves simple devices that improve tongue position and guide tooth eruption.
Orthodontics during childhood: how long does a child's treatment last
The duration depends on the type of malocclusion. Interceptive treatments typically last between 6 and 18 months. Afterward, a follow-up period is conducted until the permanent dentition is complete.
In some cases, the child needs a second phase of orthodontics around the age of 12, but this phase is much shorter thanks to early intervention.
Orthodontics during childhood: differences with orthodontics in adolescents and adults
Intervening before the age of 10 has clear advantages:
- Work is done on developing bone.
- Skeletal problems are corrected.
- The teeth move faster.
- Unnecessary extractions are avoided.
- The results are more stable.
Therefore, when working on orthodontics during childhood, the therapeutic possibilities are much greater.
Orthodontics during childhood: essential care during treatment
Care requires the involvement of the whole family:
- Careful hygiene.
- Regular visits.
- Avoid sticky sweets.
- Constant use of the device if it is removable.
- Oral habit control.
When treatment is well explained to parents, adherence is usually very good. At this point, professionals at clinics such as Acedo They always emphasize the importance of family support.
Orthodontics during childhood: emotional impact and self-esteem
Many children who are teased for their smiles experience significant improvements after starting treatment. Proper dental alignment and a balanced bite have a direct impact on:
- Confidence when speaking.
- Participation in social activities.
- The confidence of smiling.
- School adaptation.
Therefore, the orthodontics during childhood It is not just a clinical process; it is also an emotional process.
Patient's opinion
«"My daughter started orthodontic treatment as a child at seven years old because she had a very narrow palate and always breathed through her mouth. After the expansion and the first phase, she sleeps better, no longer snores, and her jaw position has been corrected. The change has been enormous, both in her health and in her confidence when smiling."»
Frequently asked questions about orthodontics during childhood
At what age should the first orthodontic check-up be done?
According to most scientific societies, around 6-7 years old.
Does orthodontics hurt during childhood?
It usually generates a slight initial pressure, but it is not significant pain.
Is it necessary to use such small braces?
Only if the malocclusion requires it; many treatments are performed without braces.
Do children's hearing aids make it difficult to speak?
There may be some adjustment during the first few days, but it disappears quickly.
Does orthodontics during childhood prevent the need for treatment in adolescence?
In many cases yes, or it considerably reduces the second phase.
Can invisible orthodontics be used on children?
Yes, in selected cases it is a very effective option.
Are treatments for children faster?
They tend to be more effective because they take advantage of bone growth.
What happens if the problems are not corrected in time?
Severe malocclusions, breathing problems, or the need for future surgeries may occur.
One last push: why now is the best time to act
The orthodontics during childhood It's a unique opportunity to correct problems before they become entrenched. A child's growth allows for results that would be more complex, time-consuming, or costly in adulthood. If you notice any symptoms or have any concerns, a professional evaluation is the wisest course of action.
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