Orthodontist for children in Munich-Unterföhring - The orthodontic early treatment
In some cases, malalignments of teeth and jaw it is required to initiate early treatment from as early as the age of six. These treatments are there to harmonise severe aberrations to facilitate a normalised growth development.
When does an early orthodontic treatment make sence?
When incisors in the lower jaw are in front of the incisors in the upper jaw:
Commonly the cause for a reverse overbite lies with a too small or trailing upper jaw. The final growth of the upper jaw typically matures at the age of 8-9 years. To deal with a growth deficit in the upper jaw, orthodontically with the aid of braces, early treatment is necessary. Intervening with orthodontic forward growth stimulation will not be possible at a later stage.
When the posterior teeth e.g. in the lower jaw are further apart than in the upper jaw:
Often in the case of a crossbite the upper jaw is too narrow. Upper and lower jaw do not fit together seamlessly, which can lead to an articulated deflection of the lower jaw. Left untreated this will result in asymmetrical facial growth. Important to note that the roof of the mouth also serves as the base of the nose. Children with narrow upper jaws commonly are diagnosed problems with nasal breathing. The orthodontist has the ability to retrospectively promote lateral growth development with the supper of specialised braces. Using this technique rectifies the crossbite and eases nasal breathing. The prerequisite for correct further growth is to start treatment early.
The condition where only a few teeth connect whilst biting down, leaving a visible gap in between the upper and lower jaw:
Open bite can be caused by incorrect habits (e.g. thumb sucking) or congenital. It is important to identify the cause early and act accordingly, to eliminate grave consequences.
When there is too little space for the permanent teeth:
In certain cases it is beneficial to start early orthodontic treatment with braces to avoid tooth extraction in the future.
When the upper incisors stick out a lot:
The risk of damage to the teeth (e.g. through sports falls, tripping) is greatly increased. Particularly in severe cases should an enlarged overjet be treated orthodontically by way of early treatment. A less severe case can be treated a later stage with the aid of the prepubescent growth spurt.