Have you ever thought about how important it is for children to enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile? Similarly, have you considered how common orthodontic problems are in childhood? According to the Hellenic Orthodontic Society, 70% of children aged 6-11 years old manifest some kind of orthodontic issue. Therefore, crooked teeth in children are a common issue in the field of orthodontics. This means that early evaluation and treatment should not be neglected. Early diagnosis and correction of these issues is essential to ensure proper oral function, aesthetics and long-term dental health.

Malocclusion can occur in various forms, such as crowding, prognathism, retrognathism, cross occlusion and sparse teeth. These dental abnormalities can occur due to genetic factors, premature loss of baby teeth, prolonged pacifier use or improper jaw development. Correcting these issues through orthodontic treatment for children is necessary, not only to improve dental aesthetics, but also to avoid speech difficulties, ineffective chewing and temporomandibular joint disorders.

Why crooked teeth in children need immediate correction

The American Federation of Orthodontists recommends that the first orthodontic examination be done at age seven. At this age, each child’s particular treatment and developmental needs can be diagnosed, as well as any skeletal abnormalities, such as a narrow maxilla or premolar prognathism. With early intervention, mobile orthodontic appliances can be applied for 12-16 months, preventing more serious problems and making any future braces treatment easier and shorter. Although orthodontic intervention is not required for all children at this age, determining an individualized treatment schedule is critical for optimal treatment of each case.

Correction options for crooked teeth in children

Classic metal braces

The traditional metal braces are applied to the front surface of each tooth and connected to each other with wires. Although they are the most common orthodontic treatment appliance, advances in materials and design have made them more comfortable and less obvious than in the past. They are highly effective in treating even severe cases of malocclusion, offering controlled tooth displacement. However, they are highly visible and may cause irritation to the cheeks and lips.

Ceramic braces

The ceramic braces are similar to metal ones, but they are made of monocrystalline sapphire or other ceramic materials, offering high transparency and less aesthetic disturbance. They are an attractive option for children and teens who want a more discreet solution, as they blend in with the natural tooth color. However, they are more fragile than metal braces and require careful maintenance to avoid chipping and discoloration.

Lingual braces

The lingual braces are placed on the inner surface of the teeth, making them practically invisible. This method is an ideal solution for children who want orthodontic treatment without the visible presence of braces. However, lingual braces can be more difficult to clean, cause speech difficulties at first, and require more adjustment by the patient.

Invisalign, the most aesthetically satisfying option to correct crooked teeth in children

In recent years, transparent splints Invisalign have gained popularity as a modern, nearly invisible orthodontic treatment option that effectively corrects crooked teeth in both children and adults.

The advantages of Invisalign include:

  • Aesthetic superiority, since the splints are practically invisible.
  • Comfort and convenience, as they have no wires or hooks that cause irritation within the oral cavity
  • They can be removed during meals and oral care.
  • Reduced risk of dental problems since they allow better oral hygiene.
  • Technological precision, as advanced 3D imaging is used to design the treatment plan.

Invisalign treatment requires discipline from the child, as the splints must be worn at least 20-22 hours a day to be effective.

In general, early orthodontic treatment during childhood is vital, as the teeth and jaws are more easily guided into the correct position. Proper jaw closure improves not only smile aesthetics, but also overall oral health, preventing problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. In addition, proper chewing facilitates the digestive process and reduces the risk of digestive disorders. Whether it is metal, ceramic or lingual braces or Invisalign, choosing the right treatment depends on the child’s needs and the guidance of the orthodontist. Regular monitoring and maintenance of oral hygiene are essential for successful completion of treatment and the acquisition of a healthy and bright smile. Invisalign orthodontist in Halandri and Koropi, Dr. Angeliki Nikolopoulou, after a thorough evaluation of each child’s dental problems, recommends the appropriate orthodontic treatment plan.