According to dental professionals, orthodontics is not solely about achieving an aesthetically pleasing smile. It plays a vital role in restoring proper chewing function, promoting balanced jawbone development, and supporting the neuromuscular systems and airway.

Best time to start orthodontic treatment?

A common concern among parents is when to start orthodontic treatment—whether during the primary teeth stage, mixed dentition stage, or after all permanent teeth have erupted. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first dental checkup as soon as the first primary tooth appears, typically around 6-7 months of age. This early visit helps parents ensure proper dental care and detect any potential issues.

Expectant mothers should also maintain regular dental checkups to care for their oral health and prepare for their child’s dental needs after birth. Early detection of issues like tongue-tie or improper breastfeeding techniques can prevent future problems.

By age 7, children should visit a specialized orthodontist for an assessment, as they enter the mixed dentition phase, where both primary and permanent teeth are present. This is an optimal time for orthodontists to detect issues such as bite irregularities and plan treatment. In some cases, early signs of problems like reverse bites or midline deviations may be evident even during the primary teeth stage.

Orthodontic intervention can be broken down into three phases: preventive, interceptive, and corrective. Preventive and interceptive treatments are generally performed during the primary or mixed dentition stages, while comprehensive orthodontics typically begin after all primary teeth have been replaced. The specific timing for treatment is determined based on the individual case.

Signs that a child needs orthodontic evaluation

Parents should consider taking their child to an orthodontist or pediatric dentist before age 7 if they notice any of the following signs:

– Misaligned, crooked, or crowded teeth.

– Early loss of primary teeth or delayed eruption compared to normal timing.

– Difficulty chewing.

– Reverse bite (upper front teeth erupting behind lower front teeth) or crossbite (upper molars erupting inside lower molars).

– Unusual sounds in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) while chewing.

– Asymmetrical facial development or uneven jaw growth.

– Habits such as thumb-sucking, lip-biting, mouth breathing, or teeth grinding.

Orthodontic methods for children

The two main types of orthodontic treatments for children are removable appliances and fixed appliances. Both methods have their respective advantages and challenges.

Fixed appliances involve using brackets (either metal or ceramic) combined with archwires to apply force and move teeth. This method is effective for more complex cases, though the visible brackets can make children feel self-conscious. Additionally, fixed appliances can complicate oral hygiene, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and cavities. If brackets become loose or wires break, follow-up visits are required.

There are various types of removable appliances. Traditional removable appliances do not move teeth in three dimensions like braces do. Nowadays, in the group of modern removable appliances, there are clear aligners that are custom-designed for each patient to gradually move the teeth into the desired position—without the need for brackets or metal wires. A good example is Invisalign First, which offers comfort for children while effectively supporting the alignment of growing baby and permanent teeth.Clear aligners offer several benefits:

– Invisible appearance: Aligners are discreet, helping children feel confident while interacting with others.

– Improved oral hygiene: Since aligners are removable, children can easily brush their teeth and use dental floss, reducing the risk of cavities and gum issues.

– Comfort: Clear aligners do not cause the irritation or discomfort associated with metal brackets, though some children may experience increased salivation initially.

– Convenience: Fewer dental visits are required, typically every 2-3 months, and there is no need to worry about loose brackets or broken wires.

However, clear aligners do require discipline and cooperation from the child, as they need to be worn for the recommended amount of time each day. They also tend to be more expensive than traditional braces, and more complex tooth movements may require additional tools.

Invisalign First, clear aligners can be removed for oral hygiene and eating. Photo courtesy of Nhu Ngoc Dental Clinic

How Invisalign First supports children’s dental development

Invisalign First helps create sufficient space for permanent teeth to erupt in proper positions by expanding the dental arch. It uses 3D technology and personalized treatment planning to predict each stage of tooth movement, giving parents and children a clear picture of the final result. The aligners are made from SmartTrack material, which applies gentle, continuous force to move teeth without discomfort.

For treatment, the orthodontist will assess the child’s dental condition, take X-rays if needed, and use intraoral scanning technology to create a precise treatment plan. The ClinCheck 3D software simulates the treatment process, allowing parents to visualize the outcome. Once treatment plan is approved, the aligners are created and provided to the child, with periodic checkups to monitor progress.

Throughout the treatment, children must maintain good oral hygiene and follow the orthodontist’s instructions for wearing and cleaning the aligners. Fluoride treatments may be provided to help prevent cavities. After treatment is completed, the child will wear a retainer to ensure the teeth remain in their new positions.

Parents can learn more about the Invisalign First treatment or other dental services at Nhu Ngoc Dental Clinic.

The clinic is led by Professor Vo Truong Nhu Ngoc, a professor in maxillofacial dentistry who received the Outstanding Physician Award in 2022 from the government. He currently serves as Deputy Director and Head of the Pediatric Dentistry Department at the Institute of Odonto-Stomatology Training, Hanoi Medical University. He is also a member of several national and international dental and orthodontic associations. Ngoc has published over 20 books and more than 150 research articles, including over 50 in prestigious international journals.Nhu Ngoc Dental Clinic conducts numerous oral healthcare programs for children, aiming to bring healthy smiles to future generations. The clinic’s team of doctors has brought iTero scanning technology to schools and communities for checkups and consultations, helping children better understand their oral health and build healthy habits from an early age.