The question of at what age should children begin orthodontic treatment is one of the most frequently asked questions by parents. Because dentists often give varying answers about the optimal age for orthodontic treatment, they may be unsure when to begin treatment.
Children's first orthodontic examination should be performed between the ages of 7 and 9, and checkups can be delayed until the age of 11 or 12 at the latest to determine if there are any dental or jaw problems. While there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment, early treatment planning, considering jaw development and tooth growth, can prevent future problems.
The importance of the question of at what age should children begin orthodontic treatment can be explained as follows. If orthodontic treatment is initiated during the growth and developmental period rather than postponed until adulthood, treatment will progress more easily and quickly, and more effective results can be achieved. If children exhibit habits such as mouth breathing, thumb sucking, abnormally protruding or receding upper and lower jaws, crossbite, or excessive crowding, they should be taken to an orthodontist for a detailed examination. Let's take a closer look at the age at which children should begin orthodontic treatment, and what the age limit is.
What Methods Are Used in Children's Orthodontic Treatment? Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment Applications
There are many methods used in children's orthodontic treatment. The primary goal of children's orthodontic treatment is to eliminate the problem. The first method to be applied is to seek help from a specialist who is knowledgeable about the cause of the problem. For example, for respiratory problems, support can be sought from an ENT specialist. Therefore, treatment approaches for each problem must be different.
Two types of appliances are used during children's orthodontic treatment: intraoral and extraoral appliances. There are two types of intraoral appliances: removable palatal appliances and fixed brackets. Removable braces are used for narrow jaws and as space maintainers, while braces are used for treatments such as closing gaps and adjusting the angle of teeth. Fixed braces are bonded to the teeth with a special adhesive and are not removed during treatment. Their advantage is that they accelerate tooth movement and allow for quick placement.
For pediatric orthodontic treatment, extraoral appliances are generally used to correct skeletal problems or to support intraoral appliances. Extraoral appliances, such as neck braces and headgear, are worn for approximately 18 hours a day, providing both orthodontic and orthopedic benefits. The pediatric orthodontist will determine the appropriate treatment.
If the optimal age for orthodontic treatment is not exceeded, the results will be faster. You can obtain information about orthodontic treatment age limits from our dentists.
What Are the Results of Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment?
The goal of pediatric orthodontic treatment is to prevent future problems and ensure healthy tooth growth. Orthodontic problems can be largely prevented by taking precautions at an early age.
Pediatric orthodontic treatment prevents bone and dental problems caused by bad habits such as thumb sucking, prolonged bottle or pacifier use, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. It creates room for narrow and receding upper jawbones. It helps your child's jaw and teeth grow in a healthy and aligned position, improves their physical appearance, boosts their self-confidence, prevents upper respiratory tract disorders, prevents trauma from misaligned upper front teeth, and prevents tooth fractures and loss.


















































































