Written by Dr. Chaw Su Kyi on September 9, 2020
It all depends on the type of correction needed. In some cases, we need to fit a brace early, at around the age of 8 or 9 years, to correct a cross-bite (when the upper tooth bites inside the lower opposing tooth) or to allow some expansion of the upper jaw. Bringing your child for regular orthodontic assessment means we can start treatment at the optimal time, as children’s teeth develop at different rates.
Yes, it’s possible to fit braces if your child still has some baby teeth but it all depends on the stage of development and type of treatment needed. A consultation with Dr Kyi, including not only a physical examination but a discussion to gain a full background, will allow her to properly advise you as to which types of treatments and which sort of timeframes are best suited to your child.
Sometimes, but don’t count on it. In certain instances, when the adult teeth first erupt, breaking through the gums, they can be quite crooked but will straighten out when the other permanent adult teeth come through. However, if the teeth are already fairly crowded, realistically, it’s unlikely they’ll have enough space to straighten themselves; in fact, often, it’s the exact opposite, as they’re likely to become more crowded.
Generally speaking, the short answer is ‘yes’, although a consultation would be needed to determine the best option for your child, given the health, development stage and current position of their teeth. Dr Kyi has a special interest in children’s orthodontics and offers the following Invisalign treatments for younger patients: Invisalign Teen, Invisalign First, Invisalign MAS.
Invisalign is great if your child plays a woodwind instrument, as there is no effect on their ability to obtain a lip seal, as the aligners fit so snugly over their teeth. However, with fixed braces, it can be trickier and they may well have to adapt their technique. Again, as part of the case assessment, it would be important to weigh up treatment options against the level of musical interest and practice over the course of treatment.
West London Orthodontics offers the most advanced orthodontic care for children and adults. Serving patients in Hammersmith, Shepherd's Bush, and Chiswick, Dr Kyi and her team specialise in various brace options, including Invisalign. Book a consultation today.
