When a child is about to start their orthodontic journey, understanding of orthodontics can help them feel confident about their treatment plan. Hence, child feel involved in treatment planning and show more interest.
For kids and teens, orthodontics differ from adult orthodontic treatment. In this article, Dr. Kevin, will try to answer some of the common questions that had been asked at Bytes & Braces Advance Orthodontics about kid and teen orthodontics.
Are Orthodontic treatment options the same for everyone?
Orthodontic treatment options varies for every individual. Depending on many factors such as age, kind of problem, cause, gender, most importantly patient compliance.
Although for some children orthodontic treatment can be deferred until their pubertal growth spurt. Which is normally around age 12 -13 years of age. But in case of growth related problems such as small lower jaw, upper jaw, skewed arch, cross bites, damaging habits, etc. Such problems should be addressed as soon as diagnosed.
With advent of technology, advanced treatment options are available for children. That include growth modulators, expanders, face mask, head gears.
Braces too have varied options available, such as metal/ceramic braces, lingual braces or clear aligners for kids and teens. Dr. Kevin, your orthodontist at Bytes & Braces Advance Orthodontics, will let you know if your child is a suitable candidate.
Dr. Kevin recommendation will be based on a number of factors, including the type of movements required to achieve an ideal result.
Proper diagnosis and planning is important as only making the front teeth straight will likely, result in re-treatment in later stage of life and additional cost to the parents.
Do only children get Phase I treatments?
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase I, is usually required in some children. Phase I treatment, can only be performed at a younger age when teeth and jaws of child are more malleable.
Typically, early intervention is suggested when a child presents with severe jaw misalignment or overcrowding, or if they have difficulty chewing, a speech impediment or a persistent thumb sucking habit.
As Phase I treatment usually takes place between the ages of 7 and 10. So, we recommend that you bring your child in for initial Orthodontic assessment at age 7 to ascertain whether early intervention will be required. It is important to make sure the person giving you this advice is a Registered Specialist Orthodontist.
Do I need to consult an orthodontist who specialises in treating children?
A fully qualified orthodontist is experienced in treating patients of all ages for their orthodontic needs. The specialist training in Orthodontics gives them the knowledge to diagnose and treat irregularities of the teeth and jaw. Regardless of the patient’s age, from young children through to adults. With the experience and knowledge of orthodontics, you can feel confident. The recommendations by an Orthodontist for your child’s treatment based what’s best for the child’s smile.
If you’re ready to consult a specialist orthodontist about your child’s smile, you can use our Finder Tool to find an IOS-registered specialist orthodontist near you.