Guide jaw development correctly with early orthodontic treatment, achieve permanent solutions without the need for braces later. Why is the first orthodontic examination at age 7 important? Read for details!
 

The Importance of Early Orthodontic Treatment

As parents, we all want our children to have a healthy, beautiful smile. However, many parents don't pay attention to crookedness in their children's teeth, thinking "baby teeth will fall out anyway." However, early orthodontic treatment positively affects both dental health and facial development by correctly guiding jaw development and oral functions. Orthodontic treatments started between ages 6-10 guide the natural process of teeth, preventing permanent tooth disorders that may occur later.

What is Early Orthodontics?

Early orthodontics includes treatments applied to children during the mixed dentition period (ages 6-10 when baby and permanent teeth are present together).
The aim is to prevent the progression of crooked teeth, jaw narrowness, or bite disorders while jaw development is still ongoing during this period. Otherwise, a process leading to jaw surgeries may begin. These treatments offer shorter, more comfortable, and permanent results compared to traditional braces.

When Should Early Orthodontic Examination Be Done?

Early orthodontics includes treatments applied to children during the mixed dentition period (ages 6-10 when baby and permanent teeth are present together). Experts recommend that children have their first orthodontic examination at age 7. During this period, the child's:

• Tooth eruption pattern and relationship between upper and lower teeth are checked
• Imbalances in jaw development are noticed
• Conditions such as harmful oral habits are evaluated
• If necessary, intervention with simple appliances in the early period prevents serious problems that may occur later.

These treatments offer shorter, more comfortable, and permanent results compared to traditional braces. The aim during this period is to prevent the progression of crooked teeth, jaw narrowness, or bite disorders while jaw development is still ongoing.

Signs Requiring Early Intervention

If the following signs are present, it is recommended to consult an orthodontist without delay:

• Upper or lower teeth being forward or backward
• Teeth appearing crooked, crowded, or spaced
• Mouth breathing habit
• Harmful habits such as thumb sucking, lip biting
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Unbalanced appearance of lower and upper jaw

Advantages of Early Treatment

• Ensures proper eruption of permanent teeth.
• Prevents jaw narrowness and bite disorders before they develop.
• Shortens braces treatment duration or eliminates the need.
• Positively affects the child's self-confidence and aesthetic appearance.
• Makes tooth brushing easier, reduces the risk of cavities and gum diseases.

 

What are the Treatment Methods?

In early orthodontics, instead of fixed braces, child-specific removable appliances or clear plates are generally used. Thanks to these appliances, the jaw can be expanded, the eruption direction of teeth can be controlled, and misalignments can be corrected while they are still in the initial stage. A Small Check Makes a Big Difference Early orthodontic treatment not only provides an aesthetic smile but also supports jaw development, preventing the need for more difficult treatments in later periods. It supports both your child's healthy oral development and confident smile. Every child is special and every child's orthodontic needs are different. The right step is to get an early examination appointment from an orthodontist to evaluate your child's dental structure and intervene at the right time.

"Remember, early diagnosis is always easier, more economical, and more effective."

As Istanbul Gelişim University Dental Hospital Orthodontics Clinic, we support healthy smiles with early diagnosis and treatment in children.

For appointment and information: 0212 800 11 21
Address: Istanbul Gelişim University Dental Hospital