Childhood Jaw Development - Don't Wait

Active plates can be used to intercept orthodontic problems that are developing or complete prevent orthodontic problems.

First phase treatment or treatment with plates will set a good foundation for beautiful teeth and ideal jaw development. The Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) recommends that every child at age seven has an orthodontic check up.

What is two phase treatment?

Orthodontic problems can be generally divided into two categories: problems that involve only the teeth and problems that involve the teeth and the jaws. If a child orthodontic problem involves abnormal jaw development, it is important that orthodontic treatment encompasses two phases.

The first phase generally involves orthodontic plates to reposition or expand the jaws. The goal is to develop the jaw size to appropriately accommodate the permanent teeth in the future and to create appropriate facial development. Plates can be removable or fixed on the teeth.

There is a percentage of patients that undergo a first phase of treatment with plates that will not require treatment with braces in the future.

What if I put off treatment?

If jaw problems are present, it is important that a child sees an orthodontist as soon as possible. Treatment during the pre adolescent years is more stable as jaw growth is at its most active and the results tend to be more stable. Jaw problems that are not treated early may require surgical treatment due to the absence of adequate jaw growth.

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