Orthodontics in Children
Orthodontics for children in PanamaWhen Should Children Go to the Orthodontist?
As children begin to grow, the formation of dental structures begins, while their bones also progressively increase in size. The application of orthodontic treatments during the childhood stage has greater chances of success, since it is precisely this process of growth and development that favors any dental or bone movement that is necessary to apply in the short term, and even foresee alterations and begin to work them before they arrive.
The first consultation with the orthodontic specialist should take place around 6 - 7 years when the dental replacement begins, the first molars have erupted and the bite relationship has been established. The child may not require treatment at this stage, but the detection of problems in the development and growth of the jaw bones may require more complex treatments in the future (including orthognathic surgery or dentures and dental extractions) if the approach is not performed. early.
All this is given the name of interceptive orthodontics; a period that allows us to guide the teeth during their eruption, also managing to make faster and more effective movements in the teeth. In this phase the The dentition is mixed (primary and permanent teeth in the process of replacement) and the small ones have growing dental arches.
be very comfortable, and even totally discreet.
Dr. Javier Trejos offers the professional advice you need,
as well as the attention of any emergency situation that warrants intervention.
You only need to contact us to arrange your appointment at the place and time that best suits your availability.
What is Incerceptive Orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics is a unique opportunity to work on the development of the jaws. After 12 - 13 years, the peak of bone growth decreases and with it the chances of correcting certain jaw problems.
Interceptive orthodontics uses specific techniques depending on the type of treatment you want to apply.
Some that we can mention are:
- Extraoral traction masks. They are perhaps very unappealing for the taste of the people; However, its effectiveness in correcting abnormalities in the facial bones is not in dispute. This system allows to correct bite problems by stimulating the development of the maxilla.
- Maxillary breaker or expander. It is a fixed appliance that applies forces to correct a narrow palate. Since this is a bone structure, it is not a type of orthodontics that is traditionally used in adults.
- Removable appliances. In young children with mixed dentition, brackets are not used to correct the position of the teeth, but rather simple and easily adapted “take off and put on” appliances.
For some patients, early treatment may consist of extracting a baby tooth with its replacement in the proper position. Others may need help positioning their tongue when swallowing or simply stop the habit of thumb sucking. After the interceptive stage and until the age of 18, older children can use braces or other available methods to continue their treatment, always with the guidance of their specialist.
In any of the cases, early intervention will not only make it possible to diagnose and correct malocclusion problems, but also conscious habits in relation to dental hygiene and the importance of oral care begin to form in the child.
Do not hesitate to contact me!
If your child is over 7 years old, and still does not go to the orthodontist, it is recommended that they attend a consultation.
A timely treatment is important so as not to compromise the well-being and health of the patient.
It is never too late to take it to an evaluation.
You can schedule an appointment online with Dr. Trejos by filling out the following form.