Differences from orthodontic treatment for adults

Pediatric orthodontics differs in many ways from orthodontic treatment as an adult. Here we explain the purpose of pediatric orthodontic treatment and the results you can expect.

Treatment to control jawbone growth

The main purpose of pediatric orthodontics is to guide jaw bone growth in the right direction. For example, insufficient growth of the lower jaw can lead to maxillary protrusion (protruding teeth) in the future. Or, insufficient width of the upper jaw can lead to crooked or crooked teeth. Preventing such potential malocclusions is important in pediatric orthodontics. Malocclusion not only affects appearance, but also the health of teeth and gums, speech, eating (chewing), and breathing, and is therefore deeply related to quality of life (QOL).

Less need for tooth extractions

Appropriate orthodontic treatment during the growth period can ensure that the space is adequate for the teeth to align properly, which reduces the need for tooth extractions during later orthodontic treatment.

Helps prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease

It is said that children who undergo orthodontic treatment have a lower risk of cavities and periodontal disease because they can receive regular checkups at the same time. In addition, improved tooth alignment and bite alignment improve cleaning and make it easier to maintain a hygienic oral environment.

When to start orthodontic treatment for children

The time when children start orthodontic treatment can be broadly divided into two stages: the first stage and the second stage.

Children's orthodontic menu

At our clinic, we offer two menus depending on the condition and age of your child's teeth.

Kids Orthodontics

This is a menu for children who have all baby teeth or a mixture of baby and permanent teeth, and who start treatment between the ages of 3 and 15 (up to junior high school students).
The second stage occurs when all of your child's teeth have been replaced by permanent teeth.
*We do not accept second stage treatment only.

First-stage treatment​

The first stage of treatment is to guide the growth of the jawbone in the right direction.
We use various orthodontic devices to widen the jaw and promote growth.
This will help to balance the upper and lower jaws and prevent misalignment and malocclusion.

Second stage treatment

The second stage of treatment involves making detailed adjustments to the alignment of your teeth.
Brackets and wires are used to move each tooth into the correct position.
This is generally called "orthodontics." By undergoing the first stage of treatment, orthodontic treatment without tooth extraction is also possible.

Retention period

This is a procedure to prevent teeth that have been moved by orthodontic treatment from returning to their original position.
A retainer is a device that holds the teeth in place to prevent relapse.
The length of time required for retention is roughly the same as the length of time it takes for the teeth to move.

Jr. Orthodontics

This is a menu for children who have all of their teeth replaced with permanent teeth and are under the age of 18 when treatment begins.
By undergoing orthodontic treatment before reaching adulthood, teeth can be moved more easily and the alignment of teeth can be improved more smoothly than if treatment was performed after reaching adulthood.

FAQ

There are other treatments like this

List of recommended treatments

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