Is there an age limit in orthodontic treatment? Different Approaches for Children, Adolescents, and Adults

Many people who are thinking about starting orthodontic treatment ask, “Is my age too advanced?” , “When should my child start?” It comes with questions like. In fact, there is no strict age limit in orthodontic treatment; there are different treatment approaches and goals suitable for each age group. The important thing is that the right treatment plan is made that is appropriate for the oral and dental health of the individual.

Orthodontics in Children: The Importance of Early Diagnosis (Stage One Treatment)

Childhood is a golden opportunity for orthodontic intervention. The first orthodontic examination, usually done around the age of 7, allows early diagnosis of potential problems in the future. At this age, some of the permanent teeth have come out and the development of the jaw can be assessed.

Early orthodontic treatment (Stage One Treatment)is usually administered in children between the ages of 7-10, and its purpose is to correct serious jaw misalignments or abnormalities in tooth development. This treatment usually lasts 6-18 months and includes:

• Guiding the Development of the Jaw: Preventing more invasive treatments (e.g. jaw surgery) in the future by directing jaw growth. For example, special attachments can be used to expand a narrow upper jaw or to correct the forward/backward position of the lower jaw.
• Correction of Bad Habits: Preventing or correcting the damage caused by habits such as finger sucking, tongue pushing, to the tooth and jaw structure.
• Placeholder Applications: By replacing prematurely lost milk teeth, providing space for permanent teeth to hold in the correct position.
• Preventing Crosstalk: Minimizing the developing crosshairs, making the second stage treatment (brackets) shorter and simpler.

Early diagnosis and intervention can positively affect the child's facial development and prevent the occurrence of more complex orthodontic problems in the future.

Orthodontics in Adolescents: The Most Common Period of Treatment (Second Stage Treatment)

Adolescence (usually 11-16 years) is the most common period for orthodontic treatment. At this age, most of the permanent teeth will last, and since jaw growth is still ongoing, it is possible to achieve ideal results.

The second stage of treatmentis usually applied during this period when all permanent teeth are in the mouth. The goal is to bring the teeth into their ideal alignment and provide a functional closure with an aesthetic smile. The most commonly used methods during this period are:

• Traditional Metal Brackets: It is one of the most common and effective methods of treatment.
• Ceramic Brackets: They are a more aesthetic option, as they are tooth colored.
• Transparent Plates (Aligners): They are especially popular with adolescents with aesthetic concerns due to their invisibility.

The duration of treatment in adolescents usually ranges from 18-30 months, although it varies depending on the complexity of the case. Orthodontic treatment during this period provides both physical and psychological benefits; it boosts adolescents' self-esteem and helps them acquire healthy dental habits.

Orthodontics in Adults: It's Never Too Late!

It's never too late to start orthodontic treatment for adults! Today, adult orthodontics is quite common, and thanks to technological advances, aesthetic and comfortable options are offered. The reasons for starting orthodontic treatment in adults can be:

• Aesthetic Concerns: Don't want to have a nicer smile.
• Functional Problems: Chewing difficulties, speech disorders, jaw joint pains (TME).
• Gum Health: Prevent or correct gum disease caused by crooked teeth.
• Tooth Abrasions: To stop tooth wear caused by improper closure.

Skeletal problems of the jaw cannot be solved only with orthodontics, as bone growth is complete in adults, and sometimes orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) combined treatment with may be required. But many adult cases can be successfully corrected only by orthodontic treatment. The most preferred methods of treatment in adults are:

• Transparent Plates (Invisalign): They provide great comfort thanks to the fact that they are almost invisible and removable.
• Lingual Brackets: They are completely invisible, as they are located on the inner surface of the teeth.
• Ceramic Brackets: They are less pronounced than metal brackets.

The duration of treatment in adults varies depending on the complexity of the case, but in children it can be slightly longer. The important thing is that overall oral health is good; problems such as gum disease or tooth decay must be controlled before starting treatment.

As a result, there is no such thing as the “right age” for orthodontic treatment; the important thing is that a treatment plan that suits the individual's needs and oral health is determined by the orthodontist. No matter what age you are, it is always possible to have a healthy and beautiful smile.

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