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Orthodontic Treatment Age

A child’s first orthodontic examination by an orthodontist should ideally be performed around the age of six.

Developmental and functional disorders are significantly easier to treat when early intervention is provided. For example, in children with habits such as thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or tongue-thrust swallowing, early identification and elimination of these habits is critically important. When such unfavorable habits lead to jaw discrepancies, early orthodontic intervention becomes essential.

If, during childhood, the only problem present is dental crowding and the facial appearance and jaw structure are otherwise normal, the most appropriate time for orthodontic treatment is generally when all or nearly all primary teeth have been exfoliated and the permanent teeth have erupted. This typically corresponds to approximately 10–11 years of age in girls and 11–12 years of age in boys.

TYPES OF BRACKETS

If the orthodontist and the patient decide on fixed orthodontic treatment, either metal or ceramic (esthetic) brackets may be selected. Although metal brackets are commonly preferred, ceramic brackets are often chosen for patients with higher esthetic expectations.

In both treatment modalities, meticulous tooth brushing is essential to prevent dental caries. At the end of treatment with ceramic brackets, discoloration or staining of the brackets may occur. Additionally, due to increased fiction between the archwire and the bracket in ceramic systems, treatment duration may be prolonged. Your orthodontist will recommend the most appropriate treatment option based on your individual needs. As an alternative to esthetic brackets, clear aligner treatment systems have become increasingly popular in recent years.

The archwire used in bracket systems function by applying controlled forces to move the teeth in the desired direction. Treatment duration generally ranges from 1 to 3 years. Since teeth gradually change position throughout treatment, monthly follow-up appointments are required.

In the past, brackets consisted of thick steel bands encircling the teeth. With advancements in technology, brackets have become significantly smaller, and orthodontic bands are now rarely used. During placement, the orthodontist bonds small brackets to the teeth using special adhesives, after which archwires are inserted through the brackets. These archwires guide the movement of the teeth along a predetermined path. Small elastic ligatures, either transparent or colored according to patient preference, may be used to secure the archwires to the brackets.

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT METHODS

There are essentially two main types of orthodontic treatment methods: removable appliances, which the patient can insert and remove independently, and fixed appliances, which are bonded to the teeth by the orthodontist. Each of these categories includes several subtypes.

For example, removable appliances may be used for active treatment or for retention following treatment. Fixed appliances may include wires bonded to the lingual (inner) surfaces of the teeth (lingual retainers) or metal and esthetic brackets bonded to the labial (outer) surfaces.

Each patient’s orthodontic problem and expectations are unique; therefore, the most suitable treatment approach must be determined individually. Materials and treatment modalities may vary among patients. Just as the appropriate age for treatment differs from person to person, treatment duration also depends on the nature and severity of the orthodontic problem.

The shortest treatment duration is approximately six months. Most treatments last between one and two years, while some may extend to two or three years. In certain special conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, treatment duration may be longer.

Orthodontic treatment is not a painful procedure. During the first one to two weeks, minor discomfort related to the adaptation process may be experienced. Apart from this initial period, patients can continue their normal daily lives while paying some attention to dietary habits. Monthly visits to the orthodontist are necessary for monitoring, adjustments, and appliance modifications.