What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is an important part of your child’s oral care because proper teeth alignment and bite are essential not only for oral health but also for overall well-being.

Pediatric orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats various dental conditions in children, such as malocclusion, crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and more severe dento-facial anomalies.

Orthodontic treatment for children – important information

First visit to the orthodontist
Braces are one of the tools orthodontists use to help create healthy, beautiful smiles in children.

Orthodontic issues can be caused by genetics or harmful habits like thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or teeth grinding (bruxism).

It is crucial for parents to take a preventative approach to their child’s oral health and see an orthodontist as soon as they notice any problems with their child’s dental or jaw development.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends the first orthodontic visit take place around age 7, when a child has a mixed dentition (both baby and permanent teeth).

Importance of early orthodontic treatment

Early orthodontic treatment plays an interceptive role. Specialists recommend regular dental visits to prevent potential problems.

Moreover, when used at the right age, braces can deliver faster and longer-lasting results.

Orthodontic treatment for children is much more effective when started early, since growing bones are more malleable. The child’s age can influence the duration of the treatment.

The goal of an orthodontic check-up starting at age 7 is to assess:

• If the lower jaw is correctly positioned in relation to the upper jaw
• If the child’s bite is correct
• If permanent teeth are erupting in the right position
• To prevent potential complications

Signs that an orthodontic evaluation is needed

Orthodontic treatment is a complex biological process involving changes to the jawbones, facial bones, and soft tissues as the teeth move into their new positions.

Early signs that a child may need orthodontic care often appear between ages 7–8, once some permanent teeth have come in.

Signs include:

• Crowded or misaligned teeth on the dental arch
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Premature (before age 4) or delayed (after 7–8) loss of baby teeth
• Abnormal jaw development
• Harmful habits: prolonged pacifier use (over 2 years), thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or cheek biting
• Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night or during stress
• Speech difficulties
• Facial asymmetry

Any of these issues may indicate a need for braces between the ages of 9 and 14.

Benefits of early orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic conditions can deeply impact individuals—children, teens, or adults alike. Crowded, crooked, or misaligned teeth aren’t just an aesthetic issue.

A major benefit is improved oral hygiene. Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to clean thoroughly, increasing the risk of cavities and tartar buildup.
Also, a proper bite improves chewing and speech.

It’s important to know that a visit to the orthodontist at age 7 doesn’t necessarily mean your child will get braces immediately.

The orthodontist will monitor your child’s growth and decide when treatment should begin—or whether it should be delayed.

The main role of early orthodontic treatment in mixed dentition is interceptive.

Other benefits of early orthodontics include:

• Guiding bone growth
• Directing permanent teeth into proper positions
• Timely correction of harmful oral habits
• Enhancing smile aesthetics
• Achieving a balanced facial profile

Early treatment can also prevent or intercept more serious issues.

In some cases, orthodontics can prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complications, which can cause chronic head, face, neck, or ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.

Braces for children – types and treatment phases

Braces are generally recommended for children over 7, based on the orthodontist’s evaluation.

Types of braces for children:

• Fixed braces: Highly effective, with metal, ceramic, or sapphire brackets
• Removable braces: Ideal for early orthodontic issues in children with baby or mixed teeth
• Lingual braces: Placed on the back of the teeth, usually recommended after age 12–14

Depending on the child’s dental development, orthodontic treatment can be done in one or two phases.

After the consultation, the orthodontist will likely request x-rays to determine the right treatment plan.

Some children may feel discomfort or pain after braces are applied, but this is normal and should subside in a few days.

After treatment, a retention phase is necessary, involving a retainer to help maintain results.

The cost of orthodontic treatment for children varies depending on the case’s complexity and the type of braces used.

The goals of early orthodontic treatment must be clearly defined. Without a clear treatment plan, it’s impossible to set the right final objectives.

For safe, effective, and quick results, treatments should be performed by an experienced orthodontist trained in international certification programs—like those at DENT ESTET 4 KIDS.

Choosing your child’s orthodontist is an important decision—their experience is key to a successful outcome.

Through early orthodontic evaluation, you can give your child the best chance at a healthy, beautiful smile.

At DENT ESTET 4 KIDS, booking an appointment is easy—just visit the “Appointment” page on our website, fill out the form, and visit one of our clinics!
Your child will receive top-quality dental care to international standards.