Children’s orthodontics: The importance of an early evaluation
It is recommended that all children be evaluated by an orthodontist at the age of seven, when the first permanent molars and incisors have already erupted. This early check-up makes it possible to identify potential orthodontic problems, such as crossbites, dental crowding and other dental disorders. The earlier these problems are detected, the easier it will be to treat them and improve long-term oral health.
When should children’s orthodontic treatment begin?
Starting treatment at an early age has multiple advantages. During this period, the orthodontist can monitor jaw growth and guide the permanent teeth into their correct positions. In addition, this treatment makes it possible to:
Control the width of the upper and lower arches
Create space for permanent teeth
Avoid extractions of permanent teeth
Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
Correct habits such as thumb sucking
Improve swallowing or speech issues
In summary, starting children’s orthodontics at an early age not only resolves existing problems, but also simplifies future treatments, promoting a healthy, well-aligned smile in the long term.
Orthodontics for adolescents
Adolescence is the ideal time to correct dental misalignments, as from the age of 12 it is the period of greatest growth and development of the jaws, and the permanent teeth are already in the mouth.
For this reason, the types of orthodontic treatment for adolescents differ from the early treatments carried out in children.
There are different orthodontic appliances and devices to make the corrections, whether fixed or removable.
Among fixed appliances, we offer transparent ceramic brackets and conventional metal brackets, depending on the patient’s choice.
As for removable appliances, we offer Invisalign Teen. It consists of removable clear aligners that are virtually invisible. This treatment follows the same technique as Invisalign aligners for adults, but includes special features to adapt them to adolescents’ activity and lifestyle, thereby ensuring the success of the treatment.
Orthodontics for adults
Orthodontic treatment can deliver good results at any age, and adults more than anyone understand the value of a beautiful smile. One in five patients receiving orthodontic treatment is over 21 years old.
Learn more about orthodontics for adults:
In adults, there is also the possibility that deterioration or loss of teeth (and even of alveolar bone, which is the bone that supports the teeth) has occurred, so these patients may require periodontal treatment before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. In addition, bone loss may limit the amount and direction of orthodontic tooth movements that can be carried out.
