Children's Orthodontic Treatment
Did you know that early assessments (at around seven years old) can shorten the duration of your child's orthodontic treatment and reduce the need for more invasive procedures in the future? Treatment can begin before a child's mouth and jaw have finished developing and permanent teeth have emerged.
We can help guide jaw development by taking advantage of your child's natural growth patterns before they require complex treatment. Treating kids early at our orthodontist offices in Calgary & Canmore is the first step to supporting the growth and development of healthy smiles.
Growth corrections can help avoid the need for jaw surgery, and often, extraction of permanent teeth can be prevented. Early evaluation is essential for detecting issues so that treatment can be provided at the right time.
Early Orthodontic Evaluations
Having orthodontic issues treated while your child is young may have an impact on jaw growth and facial symmetry. Treatment can also reduce the need for tooth extractions, oral surgery and orthodontic treatment later in life. This may also reduce treatment time with braces if they are required later.
There are generally three outcomes after bringing your child in for an early orthodontic checkup. They are:
- No treatment is expected to be necessary.
- Treatment may be needed in the future, so we will periodically assess the growth of the jaw and facial muscles.
- There is a problem that lends itself to early treatment.
Types of Early Orthodontic Problems
Many orthodontic issues are ideally addressed after all permanent teeth have come in. However, early treatment may be in the patient's best interest if the problem could worsen over time if left untreated.
Early treatment aims to identify and address the developing problem, eliminate its cause, guide the growth of facial and jaw bones, and create enough space for incoming permanent teeth. After all permanent teeth have come in, a patient may need another round of treatment to position those teeth properly.
The types of issues that orthodontists may recommend treating while a child still has some primary teeth include:
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Crowded teeth
- Excessively spaced teeth
- Extra or missing teeth
- Advanced misalignment
- Thumb-, finger-, or pacifier-sucking that is affecting the teeth or jaw growth
Some orthodontic problems are inherited, while others may result from accidents, dental disease, or abnormal swallowing.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children
At Vincelli Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment options tailored to the unique needs of children and their growing smiles. This includes the following orthodontic treatment options:
Traditional Braces
Braces are made up of wires and brackets that work together to gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions by applying gentle, constant pressure. Orthodontic treatment with braces can positively impact your child's overall health. It can help to properly align the teeth so that speaking, biting, and chewing are easier. Straighter teeth are often also easier to clean and are less likely to sustain uneven wear and tear in years to come.
Snoring & Sleep Apnea Treatment
This serious, potentially life-threatening breathing disorder is marked by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea can occur in people of all ages. Our orthodontists can help shift the lower jaw forward and open the airway, reducing the air resistance that leads to sleep apnea and snoring.
What to Expect During Treatment
While orthodontic treatment is fairly straightforward, there are a few key areas that you may have some questions or concerns with for your child. These include:
Managing Discomfort During Treatment
While orthodontic treatment may initially involve some discomfort, there are options to help make the process more comfortable. Orthodontists can suggest various methods to alleviate pain, and the benefits of orthodontic treatment outweigh any temporary discomfort.
The Duration of Orthodontic Treatment
The duration of early orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the specific treatment plan. It can range from several months to a few years. Orthodontists work closely with patients to create a personalized treatment timeline and consistently monitor progress.
Maintenance & Follow-up Care
Children will need retainers and follow-up care after early orthodontic treatment to maintain the achieved results. Orthodontists will provide specific instructions on caring for retainers and schedule regular check-ups to preserve the treatment outcomes.
The Importance of Early Orthodontics for Kids
Early orthodontic treatment provides numerous benefits for children, such as improved oral health, enhanced facial aesthetics, and improved confidence. Addressing orthodontic issues at a young age can help children avoid potential complications, save on long-term costs, and enjoy a confident smile.