Upper Jaw Alignment for Children, at what age can children start consulting an orthodontist? And what is the role of orthodontics in treating jaw and teeth problems in children? Do all children need orthodontic treatment? In addition to many common and distinguished questions that we will learn the answers to in detail in this article, so follow us to receive all the latest information on this topic.
Upper Jaw Alignment for Children
Upper Jaw Alignment for Children
Orthodontics is a complete diagnosis or a distinct treatment for some problems of the teeth, jaw, and face in general, as it is an effective treatment for all problems that occur in the teeth, as it works to improve appearance, enhance the smile, and adjust the arrangement of crooked or crooked teeth.
Upper jaw alignment for children is a type of orthodontic treatment that works to make the upper jaw protrude in front of the lower jaw. The contrast in the teeth and closure defects in the jaws negatively affects the external appearance of a person from an early age and weakens their social life. An unbalanced teeth appearance undermines the self-confidence of the owner, so this type of orthodontic treatment is resorted to in order to rearrange the teeth again.
Teeth begin to appear in children at the age of 9 months, and their growth is more or less complete at the age of 6 years. Therefore, parents can clearly observe the problem of abnormal growth of teeth and in the wrong place at this age. In case of any problem, it is advised to consult an orthodontist from childhood, and it is preferable that the age at the beginning of treatment is 8 years, although currently, age restrictions are no longer considered. To learn more, read the following article.
How to treat upper jaw protrusion in children?
Treating upper jaw protrusion in children depends on the condition of the mouth and teeth of each child, the age, and the extent of the problem’s progression. Options may include the following:
- Fixed orthodontic braces: Fixed metal braces can be used to guide the upper jaw into the correct position. Brackets are attached to the upper teeth and connected by a metal wire that exerts pressure to move the jaw into the proper position.
- Removable orthodontic appliances: These can be used for children whose permanent teeth have not fully grown. Removable orthodontic appliances work to gradually guide the upper jaw into position by adjusting them and modifying the applied force.
- Surgical treatment: In cases of severe and complicated upper jaw protrusion, surgical treatment may be necessary. Surgical treatment is determined based on a comprehensive assessment of the condition, the child’s age, and the development of the jaws. Surgery involves reshaping the bones and adjusting the position of the upper jaw.
In fact, there are many reasons that require parents to take the step of installing braces for their young children, and these reasons include:
- The presence of various problems in the child’s jaw joint.
- The presence of missing teeth, which can damage the overall appearance of the tooth.
- The presence of extra teeth beyond the child’s need, which is a rare occurrence.
- The presence of spaced, twisted, or crowded teeth, causing visual disturbance and general disfigurement.
- Gathering spaced teeth. If there are large gaps between the teeth, installing braces helps reduce these gaps.
- Retraction of the upper or lower jaw. If there is retraction in the upper or lower jaw, braces can be used to guide the jaw correctly.
- Bone and jaw deformities. Children may face deformities in the bones and jaws, such as size imbalance between the jaws or jaw shift.
- Incorrect bite alignment. If there is an incorrect alignment between the upper and lower teeth during biting, installing braces can help correct the balance.
- Correcting early developmental problems. In some cases, developmental problems in the teeth and jaws can be diagnosed early in children.
What causes upper jaw protrusion in children’s teeth?
Upper jaw protrusion in children’s teeth can result from several important factors, and here are some possible causes:
- Genetic factors: Genetics may play a role in upper jaw protrusion. If one of the parents or grandparents suffers from upper jaw protrusion, this may be associated with an increased risk of occurrence in children.
- Bad habits such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, or deep inhalation during sleep can lead to upper jaw protrusion in teeth.
- If there is an imbalance in the bite between the upper and lower jaws, upper jaw protrusion may occur. This can result from size discrepancy between the jaws or imbalance of the surrounding jaw muscles.
- Upper jaw protrusion may be a natural part of the growth and development of the jaws and teeth in children, and the position may change over time as growth is completed.
Types of Braces
Types of Braces for Children
There are several types of braces used for children, and the appropriate type of braces is chosen based on the condition of the mouth and teeth, and the individual diagnosis for each child. Here are some types of braces for children:
- Removable orthodontic appliances: These are made of removable and adjustable plastic materials. This type of braces is used in simple cases and to guide the teeth and jaws into the correct position. Children can remove them while eating and during oral cleaning.
- Fixed orthodontic appliances: This is the most common and comprehensive type used in orthodontic treatment for children. The clear or metal wire is attached to the teeth and connected to the brackets bonded to the teeth.
- Clear aligners: This type of braces is common for children and teenagers. A series of clear aligners is used to gradually guide the teeth into position. Clear aligners are comfortable to wear and can be removed during eating and cleaning.
- Headgear: In this case, the doctor increases the pulling force to move the child’s teeth, so they resort to headgear, which contains supports placed at the back of the head. It can be easily removed and is used only during sleep.
- Orthodontic retainer: This is a device used after a period of orthodontic treatment, and it works to maintain the new position of the teeth for as long as possible. It is divided into more than one type, such as the temporary clear retainer or the brackets placed on the inside of the teeth.
Treatment of lower jaw retraction in children
Lower jaw retraction in children can result from several causes, including genetic factors, biting habits, or improper use of the jaws. If you suspect that your child has lower jaw retraction, it is recommended to visit an orthodontist to evaluate the condition and determine the appropriate treatment. Options for treating lower jaw retraction in children may include:
- Removable orthodontic appliances: These can be used for children whose permanent teeth have not fully grown. These devices help guide the lower jaw into the correct position.
- Fixed orthodontic appliances: These can be used for children whose permanent teeth have fully grown. A metal wire is attached to the teeth, and the lower jaw is guided into the correct position by adjusting the tension and pressure applied to the teeth.
- Surgical treatment: The doctor may recommend surgical treatment in cases of severe and complicated lower jaw retraction. This type of treatment is determined based on a comprehensive assessment of the condition and after the complete growth of the jaws.
- Nasopharyngeal airway: This is a device inserted through the nostrils and into the pharynx, which helps with proper breathing at night. It is used for both adults and infants.
Cost of braces for children
It is important to emphasize that the cost of braces for children is not fixed and may vary in many clinics between 10,000 Egyptian pounds to 20,000 Egyptian pounds. The cost of braces depends on the difficulty of the case, the duration of treatment, and the type of braces chosen for the condition. For example, the cost of clear aligners is slightly higher than metal braces.
“With us, you don’t need to sacrifice quality of care for prices. At the Medical Center for Dental Care, we offer orthodontic services for children at reasonable and competitive prices, while maintaining high standards of personalized and professional care. To learn more, click the following link.”
Appropriate age for installing braces for children
Installing braces for children requires a personal assessment by an orthodontist. Generally, braces can be installed for children at an advanced age when their permanent teeth have fully grown. The appropriate age for braces depends on several factors, including jaw and tooth growth, bone development, and chewing. This usually occurs during adolescence when their permanent teeth are more complete and the jaw bones are fixed.
“Let your children smile with confidence! At our Medical Center for Dental Care, we provide effective and safe orthodontic services for your children. To contact us, visit the following link.”
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