Pediatric orthodontics is a field of treatment that enables the monitoring of children’s dental development, jaw structure, and facial growth, allowing potential orthodontic problems to be identified at an early stage. Dental crowding, jaw discrepancies, bite problems, and harmful oral habits can be evaluated during childhood. Thanks to early orthodontic examinations, the development of the teeth and jaws can be monitored, and appropriate treatment plans can be created for problems that may become more complex in the future.
Orthodontic Specialist Dr. Emin Serhat Arıkan, who provides services in Adana, evaluates the dental development and jaw structure of pediatric patients in detail and plans age-appropriate and personalized orthodontic solutions according to their needs.
What Is Pediatric Orthodontics?
Pediatric orthodontics includes orthodontic applications aimed at ensuring proper alignment of the teeth, harmonious development of the jaws, and the establishment of an ideal bite relationship in children.
Since jaw development continues during childhood, some orthodontic problems can be managed more easily by taking advantage of the growth process. Therefore, regular orthodontic evaluations can contribute to the healthy development of children’s oral and dental structures.
When Should the First Orthodontic Examination Be Performed in Children?
The first orthodontic evaluation in children is generally recommended around the age of 7. At this stage, the mixed dentition period begins, during which both primary and permanent teeth are present.
Orthodontic examinations performed at this age can help detect the following conditions early:
- Problems in jaw development,
- Tooth eruption disorders,
- Risk of dental crowding,
- Bite problems,
- Harmful oral habits.
In Which Situations Is Pediatric Orthodontics Applied?
Pediatric orthodontics may be considered in the following situations:
- Noticeable dental crowding,
- The lower or upper jaw being positioned too far forward or backward,
- Crossbite,
- Teeth not erupting at the normal time or in the correct position,
- Early loss of primary teeth,
- Thumb-sucking habit,
- Incorrect swallowing habits such as tongue thrusting,
- Mouth breathing,
- Irregular spacing between teeth.
The need for orthodontic treatment is determined after a clinical evaluation of the child.
How Is Pediatric Orthodontics Performed?
Orthodontic Examination
In the first stage of treatment, the child’s dental structure, jaw relationships, and facial development are evaluated. When necessary, a detailed examination is performed using X-rays, digital measurements, and various analyses.
Treatment Planning
Based on the findings, a treatment method appropriate for the child’s age, stage of development, and existing orthodontic problem is selected.
Orthodontic Applications
Treatment options that may be used in children include:
Removable Appliances
Removable appliances that the child can insert and remove may be used to correct certain types of dental crowding and support jaw development.
Functional Appliances
Special appliances suitable for the growth period may be used to help manage jaw development discrepancies.
Fixed Orthodontic Treatment
After most of the permanent teeth have erupted, fixed orthodontic treatment using brackets and wires may be preferred when necessary.
What Are the Advantages of Early Orthodontic Treatment in Children?
Orthodontic evaluations performed at an early stage may:
- Help manage jaw development problems,
- Support the eruption of teeth in more appropriate positions,
- Reduce the need for more extensive treatment in the future,
- Help support chewing and speech functions,
- Contribute to a more balanced facial and oral development.
How Long Does Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment Take?
The duration of pediatric orthodontic treatment varies depending on factors such as the child’s age, the type of orthodontic problem, and the appliance or treatment method used.
Some early intervention treatments may be completed within a few months, while comprehensive orthodontic treatments may take longer. The exact duration is determined after the orthodontic examination.
What Should Be Considered After Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment?
For the treatment process to progress successfully, it is important that:
- The appliances are used as recommended by the dentist,
- Oral hygiene is maintained regularly,
- Follow-up appointments are not missed,
- Hard and sticky foods are avoided,
- Proper dental cleaning is maintained.
How Are Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment Prices Determined?
The cost of pediatric orthodontic treatment may vary depending on:
- The treatment method to be applied,
- The type of appliance to be used,
- The duration of treatment,
- The extent of the orthodontic problem,
- The child’s existing dental and jaw structure.
The exact cost is determined individually after the orthodontic evaluation.
Adult Orthodontics