Orthodontics in Childhood – From Baby Teeth to Permanent Teeth
Many parents assume that orthodontic treatment can only begin once all permanent teeth have erupted. In reality, the mixed dentition period — when both baby teeth and permanent teeth are present — offers unique and time-limited opportunities to guide jaw development and prevent more complex problems later.
Why Early Orthodontic Assessment Matters
The jaws and dental arches grow rapidly between ages 6 and 12. Certain problems — such as a crossbite, a narrow upper jaw, or an underbite — are most effectively corrected during this growth phase using relatively simple appliances. If these issues are not addressed during childhood, they may require more complex treatment (including surgery) in adulthood.
Signs That a Child May Benefit from Early Assessment
- Thumb sucking or dummy use beyond age 3–4
- Mouth breathing
- Crossbite (lower teeth biting outside upper teeth)
- Crowding in the baby dentition
- Asymmetrical jaw growth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
What Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Involve?
Early (interceptive) orthodontic treatment does not necessarily mean full braces. Common approaches include:
Space maintainers: To preserve space after early loss of a baby tooth, preventing neighbouring teeth from drifting.
Expansion appliances: To widen a narrow upper jaw and create space for erupting permanent teeth.
Functional appliances: To harness jaw growth in patients with class II (overbite) problems.
These early interventions reduce the complexity and duration of later orthodontic treatment, and in some cases eliminate the need for it entirely.
At Smilecraft, we recommend a first orthodontic assessment at age 7 — even if no obvious problems are apparent. Early assessment does not necessarily mean early treatment; it means early awareness and timely intervention when appropriate.
