Orthodontics for children
A beautiful smile starts early! Orthodontic treatment in children plays a key role in the development of a healthy and properly aligned set of teeth.
Orthodontic treatment in children often begins with an initial check-up around the age of 8. At this stage, the orthodontist can assess whether braces are already needed or if treatment will be required later on.
When does orthodontic treatment for children begin?
Many parents wonder when their child should begin orthodontic care. In general, we recommend scheduling a first orthodontic consultation around the age of 8.
This is the age when permanent teeth begin to emerge, and an orthodontist can detect early signs of potential issues - such as a narrow palate, open bite, underbite, or crowding.
Not every child needs braces at a young age, but early evaluation can help prevent more complex treatments later on.
At this stage, we focus on the growth and development of the teeth and jaws. In some cases, preventive treatment may be started to guide jaw growth and create space for permanent teeth.
What types of orthodontic treatment are used in children?
Orthodontic treatment always depends on the child’s specific dental needs.
When a child begins orthodontic care at an early age, it should be seen as a positive step. It means potential issues are being detected and addressed early - making it more likely your child will enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile during their teenage years.
The most common appliances for younger children include: removable braces, butterfly braces and in some cases even fixed braces.
What is an 'early orthodontic treatment'?
An early orthodontic treatment - also known as interceptive orthodontics or simply EOT - is orthodontic care that starts before the age of 9.
The goal of early orthodontics is to address specific dental or jaw issues early on, so that further treatment in the future is simpler, shorter, or even unnecessary.
Common goals of early treatment include correcting:
- Anterior and posterior crossbites
- Functional shifts of the jaw
- Improper position of the front teeth
- Crowding during the mixed dentition phase
Is your child nervous for its first visit to the orthodontist? Be sure to read our tips on how to reassure your child!
We are committed to providing careful, professional, and friendly care to children throughout their orthodontic journey.
Book a first consultation today at one of our clinics in Leuven, Halle, Zichem, or Diest, and discover what orthodontics can do for your child’s dental development!
Who else can benefit from our orthodontic care
Do you need orthodontic treatment?
Want to get the smile you've always dreamed of? At OrthoGroep, we are happy to guide you every step of the way. Make an appointment today and find out what we can do for you!
