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The American Association for Orthodontists recommends that every
child have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Early
detection and treatment gives your child the edge: a much better
chance for natural and normal development. By working with the
natural growth instead of against it, we can prevent problems
from becoming worse, and give your child a lifetime of healthy
smiles!
 Early treatment should be initiated for:
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Habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking
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A constricted airway due to swollen adenoids or tonsils
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Mouth breathing or snoring problems
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A bad bite
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Bone problems (i.e. narrow or underdeveloped jaws)
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Space maintenance (for missing teeth)
Phase One
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Functional (Growth) Appliances
and/or Limited Braces - Ages 5 to 12
In
the first phase, the doctor is interested in the position and
symmetry of the jaws, future growth, spacing of the teeth,
breathing and other oral habits which may, over a period of
time, result in abnormal dentofacial development.
Treatment initiated in this phase of development is often very
successful and some times, though not always, can eliminate the
need for future orthodontic treatment.
Phase Two -
Braces - Ages 12 to 14
In
the second phase, the doctor will be looking at how your child’s
teeth and jaws fit, and more specifically work, together. Your
child’s teeth will be straightened and their occlusion (bite) is
properly aligned. Attention will be given to the jaw joint, (TMJ),
the facial profile and periodontal (gum) tissues. By undergoing
the first phase, we can usually reduce the amount of time needed
for braces.
Facts: Early Treatment is Important to
Consider!
Facial Development -
Seventy-five percent of 12-year-olds need orthodontic treatment.
Yet 90% of a child's face has already developed! By guiding
facial development earlier, through the use of functional
appliances, 80% of the treatment can be corrected before the
adult teeth are present!
Cooperation
- Younger children between the ages of 8 and 11 are often much
more cooperative than children of ages 12 to 14.
Shorter Treatment Time
- Another advantage of early Phase One treatment is that
children will need to wear fixed braces on their adult teeth for
less time.
To Correct Underdeveloped or
Overdeveloped Jaws -
Almost 55% of children who need orthodontic treatment due to a
bad bite have underdeveloped or overdeveloped upper or lower
jaws. Functional appliances and/or limited braces can reposition
the jaws, improving the child's profile and correcting the bite
problem - within 7 to 9 months!
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Pediatric Dentist, Soudabeh Sharafi, D.M.D., Del Mar Pediatric & Adolescents Dental
Practice ~ Serving infants,
children and teens in the surrounds cities of San Diego, Oceanside,
Vista, Carlsbad and Encinitas, CA
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