Emerging theories in orthodontic care have changed the timing of when children get braces. By putting braces on baby teeth, orthodontists can better manage jaw growth and positioning of adult teeth. The result is typically a two-phase approach, with baby teeth braced in the first phase, a period of rest and retainment of jaw and tooth position, followed by a second phase of brief adult tooth bracing.
Types
Baby teeth typically don't require full braces, that mouthful of metal that many adults experienced as children. The process typically begins with a retainer to manage any cross bite, when the upper jaw is wider than the lower jaw. The front teeth and back molars are the most frequent baby teeth braced, with the side molars and the canines left free to be aligned by the wires attached to the brackets at front and back. Bracing the front baby teeth corrects any overbite and minimizes the prominence of front teeth.
Function
By positioning baby teeth to make room for adult teeth, the adult phase of braces is typically shorter. Some children, or tweens, don't require a second phase as the first phase creates appropriate space for adult teeth to align properly. The result is a healthy bite that doesn't require further intervention.
Time Frame
Children should be evaluated for orthodontic care by age 7, states the American Association of Orthodontists. This allows orthodontists to review the need for early intervention and prevent not only malformation of the jaw, but also prevent issues with adult teeth overcrowding. Early intervention minimizes the need for more aggressive intervention in later life, such as pulling teeth if the jaw is too overcrowded.
Considerations
If your child was a thumb or finger sucker, the upper jaw may have narrowed during her early years. The result is a crossbite, in which the lower jaw is wider than the upper jaw. Without intervention and bracing of baby teeth, the child's jaw may not grow properly, causing a permanent offset of the jaw and a poorly developed profile.
Warning
Not all dental plans provide orthodontic coverage. If you're considering orthodontic care for your child, add the coverage before the child's seventh birthday so early intervention and bracing of baby teeth is covered by your dental insurance.
