“Prevention is better than cure.”
Pediatric orthodontics intercepts and prevents problems in the growth of permanent dentition +info
Pediatric orthodontics, also called pediatric dentistry or interceptive orthodontics, specializes in preventing problems with space and tooth positioning when the dentition is not yet permanent. Its goal is to diagnose potential problems early enough to avoid more complex and invasive treatments later on. Interception is performed from the age of 7 or 8, which is typically when the permanent dentition erupts. It is a variable age, although it is advisable to wait for the appearance of the first molars to detect the extent of incorrect tooth position or insufficient space in the mouth.
Pediatric orthodontics is one of the recommended treatments to anticipate potential positioning problems that arise with the eruption of permanent dentition. Permanent teeth are larger than baby teeth, and the size of the upper jaw does not always develop at the same time. Additionally, the shedding of baby teeth does not occur in an orderly manner. Therefore, when permanent teeth begin to push out baby teeth, they take their position according to the available space.
Pediatric dentistry allows for the correction of habits that affect tooth placement while also promoting the adoption of others that aid in the correct growth and positioning of permanent teeth. It also helps prevent dentofacial deformities at early ages.
Detecting these space problems at early stages is crucial for guiding the development of permanent dentition in the healthiest and most convenient way for each case, thus preventing the need for more invasive orthodontics in adolescence, a stage where safety and image also gain importance.
