The use of functional appliances in early orthodontics treatment for children in Mississauga
A straight smile is not only important for
Some signs that your child may need early orthodontic intervention:
- Loss of baby teeth at an early or late age. (Most
children begin losing their teeth around 5 years old and will have all
of their permanent teeth by 12 or 13) - Biting and chewing problems
- Extended thumb sucking (past the age of 5 or 6).
- Speech impediments
- Teeth that protrude or stick out away from each other
- Teeth that do not line up when the mouth is closed
- Overcrowding of front teeth
Determining what type of orthodontic appliance a child will
need can be done during an evaluation. One of the most commonly
corrected issues with early orthodontic treatment is the growth of the
jaw. Appliances can help halt disproportional growth by redirecting the
growth of the upper and lower jaw. This helps develop a skeletal balance
and allows teeth to fit together correctly. In addition, it can also
improve the shape and aesthetics of the face. This type of treatment is
best done for children around age 8. During the early teen years, the
jawbone begins to harden and stop growing. This occurs around 13.5 years
old for girls and 14.5 years old for boys. At this point, orthodontic
treatment will take longer to work and may involve extraction or
surgery.
For children with mild crowding or orthodontic issues,
treatment may be best once the majority of permanent teeth have erupted.
We recommend that all children receive orthodontic
evaluations by the age of 7 years old to determine if any problems are
present and the appropriate time to begin treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Appliances for Orthodontics
What are functional appliances for orthodontics?
Functional appliances are orthodontic devices designed to guide the growth and development of the jaws and improve how teeth come together. They work by gently using the natural forces generated during activities like chewing and speaking to adjust jaw positioning. Dr. Rina Raichada at Dentistry On 10 uses these appliances to help patients achieve better dental alignment and healthy, beautiful smiles.
Who is a good candidate for functional appliances?
Functional appliances are primarily recommended for growing children and teenagers. This is because their jawbones are still developing, which makes it easier to guide growth in the desired direction. If you are unsure if functional appliances are right for your child, Dr. Rina Raichada can assess their specific dental and jaw needs during a consultation.
How do functional appliances work?
Functional appliances use a combination of forces to influence jaw growth and tooth positioning. By wearing the appliance as directed, the jaw gradually aligns to the optimal position. Dr. Rina Raichada will customize the appliance based on the exact needs of the patient to ensure the best results.
Are functional appliances removable or fixed?
Functional appliances can either be fixed or removable, depending on the specific case. Removable appliances are more common and require consistent wear to achieve effective results, while fixed appliances are bonded in place and work continuously. Dr. Rina Raichada will recommend the best option based on your orthodontic needs and lifestyle.
Do functional appliances hurt?
Most patients experience minor discomfort or pressure when they first start wearing a functional appliance. This is a sign that the appliance is working to adjust the jaw and teeth. The team at Dentistry On 10 will ensure the appliance fits perfectly, and Dr. Rina Raichada is always available to address any concerns and provide tips for comfort.
How long do I need to wear a functional appliance?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the individual’s needs. Typically, treatment with a functional appliance lasts several months to a couple of years. Dr. Rina Raichada will design a treatment plan with a clear timeline and provide guidance to help you achieve the desired results as efficiently as possible.
What should I do to take care of my functional appliance?
Caring for a functional appliance involves proper cleaning and regular check-ups. Removable appliances should be cleaned daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. For fixed appliances, it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene to avoid plaque buildup. Dr. Rina Raichada and her team will provide you with detailed care instructions to keep your appliance in excellent condition and ensure effective treatment.
