Orthodontic children's treatment: braces and plates

A beautiful smile is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also speaks of a proper bite. Treatment of malocclusion is possible already in childhood: by installing special orthodontic devices, plates or braces. In addition, bite correction and alignment of teeth at an early age can prevent further gum problems, improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of caries and periodontal disease.

Why install orthodontic systems in childhood?

Malocclusion is a common problem that occurs in a significant part of the population. Violation of the closure of teeth can lead to a number of undesirable complications (displacement of teeth, underdevelopment of the jaws, the development of inflammation, joint pain). After orthodontic treatment at Olympus Clinics, you will collect compliments from others and feel confident in dental health. Our orthodontic dentist, Diana Vladimirovna Trel, told us all about orthodontic problems.

It is recommended to begin alignment of the dentition in childhood or adolescence, since during this period the dental apparatus is not yet fully formed, which makes it flexible and easy to correct, and also allows you to create conditions for proper jaw growth. Orthodontists recommend bringing children for preventive examinations from the age of 6, every six months, in order to track the occurrence of abnormalities at an early stage. The optimal age for starting orthodontic treatment is before puberty. 

Treatment of occlusion disorders (closure of the upper and lower jaws) in children is carried out by various methods. The best option is chosen by an orthodontist for consultation, based on the complexity of the defect and the age of the child. 

How old are the braces installed? 

Braces are usually installed for children starting from 10-12 years old. By this age, most permanent teeth have already erupted, and the jaw is still flexible enough to adjust the bite. However, the exact age may vary depending on the characteristics of the child's growth and development.

What is the difference between orthodontic systems? 

Braces and plates are two different orthodontic devices that are used to correct bite and align teeth. The choice of the device is made by a specialist depending on the age, problem, duration of treatment and other factors.

Braces are used at an older age to align teeth and correct bite in children. They can cope with serious violations of the dental system, such as crowding and incorrect position of teeth, excessive gaps between teeth, malocclusion and other anomalies. The wearing period is longer than that of the plates (on average 1, 5 - 3 years, depending on the complexity of the case).

Plates and orthodontic devices are more often used for minor bite corrections or tooth alignment, especially in young children. They are suitable for eliminating simple anomalies such as crowded teeth and narrowed dentition. They are worn for several months to a year, depending on the necessary correction. In addition, these are most often removable structures. The plate is for the most part a preventive method that sets the correct vector for jaw growth. They are less effective than braces in the treatment of complex orthodontic problems, but they are convenient for use in the early stages of treatment and for minor corrections. However, they do not guarantee that after puberty, the child will not need orthodontic treatment on a bracket system. 

Spacers. In addition, if a baby tooth is removed prematurely for therapeutic reasons, and the permanent tooth is not yet ready for eruption, it is necessary to visit an orthodontist to install a special spacer. This spacer will save space for a future permanent tooth. Without it, adjacent teeth can shift, taking up the space that has been vacated, which will prevent the correct eruption of a permanent tooth. 

Contraindications to the installation of braces and plates for children

  • Periodontal disease

  • Dental decay

  • Allergic reactions (for example, to nickel and acrylic)

  • Blood diseases

  • Chronic diseases (severe diabetes)

  • Problems with the respiratory system

  • Immune diseases

  • Blood diseases

  • Diseases of the bone system

  • Endocrinological diseases

In addition, in pediatric dental treatment, it is important that the child follows the doctor's instructions, properly cares for the orthodontic system and observes oral hygiene. Parents should responsibly monitor this so that dental treatment is as fast and effective as possible. 

Preparing for installation 

Preparation for orthodontic treatment includes several stages. At the initial consultation, the doctor conducts a visual examination and determines the need for treatment, as well as collects anamnesis from the child's parents. 

After the examination, diagnostic procedures are prescribed - an X-ray examination is performed and dental casts are taken to create an accurate treatment plan. Next, the doctor draws up an individual treatment plan. It is based on the age of the child, the degree of complexity of the anomaly and the presence of concomitant dental problems. Before installation, it is necessary to perform therapeutic preparation of the oral cavity and eliminate all inflammation, as well as to carry out professional tooth cleaning. 

After installing a bracket system or an orthodontic device, regular follow-up visits to the doctor are scheduled. The orthodontist monitors the progress and corrects the system, as well as evaluates the condition of the teeth and makes changes to the treatment plan to achieve better results.

Oral care while wearing braces and plates
Our doctors explain to the child and parents how to properly brush their teeth with the installed system, which products to avoid and how to minimize discomfort. Oral care in children requires careful hygiene to prevent tooth decay, gingivitis and other dental problems. 

Recommendations for oral care: 

  • Brushing your teeth after each meal

  • A soft toothbrush or an electric brush

  • The use of dental floss and irrigator, rinses

Nutrition correction (minimize sweet, hard and sticky foods)

It is important for parents to motivate their children while wearing braces or plates. It is necessary to praise the child for observing the rules of hygiene, and you can also use various games to turn oral care into an exciting process for the child.

Why do patients choose Olympus Clinics? 

In Olympus Clinics, all procedures and consultations are carried out by doctors of the highest category, candidates of medical sciences. During the consultation, doctors will carefully consider your preferences, carefully assess the state of health and possible contraindications, and also find the right approach to your child so that treatment brings only positive emotions. Throughout the treatment, our doctors are involved in the process and are interested in the fastest and highest quality result. Olympus Clinic appreciates your comfort and will do everything possible to keep you and your children healthy.

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