When is the right time for
Ortho Treatment?

Orthodontics for children & adolescents

In childhood and adolescence, many misaligned teeth and jaws can be corrected quite easily. A detailed diagnosis is very important in order to differentiate between tooth or, as is in most cases, combined tooth and jaw misalignments.

Both types can be corrected with appropriate aids predictably, since the jaws of children and adolescents are still growing, and teeth can be moved more easily. Furthermore, early treatment in young children can minimize and control undesirable developments.

Adolescence is the optimal time for comprehensive orthodontic treatment, though occasionally even earlier intervention is called for. Generally, by the age of 10-13 the permanent teeth have all come in. Once all adult teeth are present, we can start aligning the teeth and perfecting the bite.

Our practice is fully digital

Including X-ray technology to ensure the lowest radiation exposure, and the use of 3D digital cameras to eliminate the need for unpleasant conventional dental impressions.

List of treatments

  • Orthodontics for children and adolescents
  • Aesthetic orthodontics
  • Treatment with invisible, elastic aligners (Invisalign® First and Invisalign® Teen)
  • Combined orthodontic-maxillofacial treatments
  • Treatment of patients with cleft lip and palate
  • Mouthguards for sports?

Are teenagers candidates for Invisalign® ?

Invisalign® First and Invisalign® Teen is the virtually invisible way to straighten your teen’s teeth without the restrictions that come with traditional braces. Rather than wires and brackets, Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable aligners that have been custom-made for your teen’s teeth. Your teen simply wears them over his or her teeth and changes them out for a new set of aligners every week. Little by little, your teen’s teeth gradually shift into place, achieving that confident smile.

Is Invisalign® First and Invisalign® Teen as effective as traditional braces?

Yes. If we recommend Invisalign® for your teen, we have determined that it is a great treatment option. When the Invisalign® trays are worn daily for approximately 22 hours a day, they straighten teeth gradually over the course of treatment.

What are some of the practical advantages of Invisalign® First and Invisalign® Teen over traditional braces?

Clear aligner trays are removable, making it easier to clean your teeth. Patients only need to be seen every 4-12 weeks, cutting down the frequency and number of appointments – a great option for busy families and busy teens. There are less emergency appointments because you no longer have to be seen for broken brackets and poking wires. There are less food restrictions because we are not worried about brackets coming unglued from the teeth.

Speech / tongue disorders

In children it’s important to look beyond teeth. Quite frequently tongue malfunctions impact tooth positions and jaw development. These are also referred to as “habits” which can be more easily corrected the sooner treatment starts.

Airway disorders – Snoring and mouth breathing in growing children can indicate an underlying problem.

One of the most underestimated functional problems in children is restricted airways caused by narrow upper jaws/lower jaw position. The resulting lack of adequate oxygen supply during sleep or activities can lead to fatigue, concentration deficits or lack of energy. Signs for restricted airways that you can check are mouth breathing, snoring, morning fatigue despite adequate hours of sleep, shortage of breath during sports activities.

Mouth breathing may indicate an airway obstruction, leading to poor sleep quality and subsequent  inadequate neurocognitive development and whole body development.

If caught and treated early, we have the ability to alter the skeletal growth trajectory and make tremendous positive changes. Correction of restricted airways well established and highly advantageous for your child’s development.

If any of the below signs are noticeable in your child

We are happy to offer a simple airway diagnostic

Signs to look for in growing children

  • Opened-mouth posture while the child is sitting still (inability to keep lips together)
  • Dry and chapped lips
  • History of chronic ear infections
  • Red or swollen upper gums
  • Always eats with mouth opened
  • Underbite or overbite
  • Anterior open bite (front teeth do not overlap)

Signs of airway restrictions

  • Have you heard your child snore?
  • Have you heard your child stop breathing?
  • Have you heard your child grind his or her teeth?
  • Does your child toss and turn through the night?
  • Is there a history of bed wetting?
  • Do you observe daytime sleepiness?
  • Does your child have morning headaches?
  • Do you observe hyperactivity and/or an inability to pay attention to tasks?

Our certified dental hygienist will offer a treatment according to their individual needs.

Contact us if you are unsure.
Each treatment has to be planned individually, because the teeth, jaws, growth and function are unique – just like your child is.