45 woman this month | October 2011 | Traditionally, orthodontistry has only been recommended for children aged over 11 years. However, as Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s specialist orthodontist and implantologist Dr. Anup Varghese explains, early orthodontic treatment can boost self esteem in younger children. “Parents should schedule three monthly appointments for checkups with a dentist who can guide them and encourage them to seek treatment for early orthodontic problems in their children,” says the doctor. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists endorses the idea that youngsters should be evaluated by a dentist or orthodontist at the age of seven. The earliest phase of orthodontistry can begin between ages seven and nine. It includes straightening of the front permanent teeth and creating space for the remaining teeth that erupt when the child reaches about 12 years old. This reduces the likelihood of extracting permanent teeth in the future. If there is a jaw growth problem or bite problem, such as over bite or under bite, correction is also done during this phase using functional growth therapy. Sometimes the child needs to be checked earlier than seven years. Thumb sucking, pacifiers, tongue thrust and breathing through the mouth are habits that may also need early intervention. In some cases, early orthodontic treatment may be needed to aid speech therapy. Spot the problem One of the most obvious signs that your child might require orthodontic treatment is if they have crooked teeth. Another less obvious way to check is to ask your child to bite all the way down, keeping the lips open. The top teeth should line up in front of the bottom teeth with a 2mm to 4mm overlap. If the top teeth cover more than 50 per cent off the bottom set then it’s an overbite or a deep bite. If the top teeth do not cover the lower teeth then it is an under bite or an open bite and if the upper teeth are behind the lower teeth then it is a reverse bite. Also check for non-alignment or shifting of the jaw, which may mean your child has a skeletal problem, requiring early intervention with an orthodontic appliance to correct the jaw defects. “Early intervention helps reduce the complexity of the treatment needs at later stages. And this is Preventive Orthodontics. When any of the above conditions are already prevalent at the time the child sees the orthodontist, the techniques taken then to intercept the problem are called Interceptive Orthodontics”. Of course, visiting any kind of doctor can be frightening for young children, BSH offers qualified orthodontists who have extensive experience working with children giving your child the gift of confidence and a flawless smile. Call 17 812-000. Child Orthodontia BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Early orthodontic treatment for children has sparked a lot of debate, but there is plenty of evidence to support orthodontic intervention from the age of seven.
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