Pediatric & Orthodontics
Early Orthodontic Treatment — Ataşehir Pediatric Orthodontics (Age 7+)
Early orthodontic treatment enables the detection and intervention of jaw and dental development issues during the growth period in children. This approach allows potentially serious orthodontic problems to be resolved with less invasive interventions before they fully develop.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that every child undergo an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 at the latest. This is the mixed dentition stage; potential issues can be detected early so growth can be guided.
Crowded teeth, crossbite, narrow upper jaw (palatal expansion indication), or lower jaw protrusion/retrusion can be treated much more easily during the early period. Interventions performed during the growth phase also determine whether full orthodontic treatment (braces or clear aligners) will be needed at age 11–14. Detailed appliance comparison: /en/blog/pediatric-orthodontic-appliance-types-guide.
Harmful habits such as thumb sucking, lip sucking, and mouth breathing can also negatively affect dental and jaw structure. Controlling these habits early with myofunctional therapy or simple habit-breaker appliances is critical to preventing permanent deformities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment — Ataşehir Pediatric Orthodontics (Age 7+)
At what age should I take my child for an orthodontic examination?
The AAO and AAPD recommend a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 at the latest. At this stage, mixed dentition has begun; crossbite, narrow upper jaw, and mouth breathing issues are far easier to address when caught early.
How long does early orthodontic treatment take?
The duration depends on the issue's type and severity; Phase 1 interventions generally complete in 6–18 months. Most children then enter an observation period until growth completes; if needed, Phase 2 (braces or clear aligners) is performed between ages 11–14.
Which appliances are used? (Palatal expander, headgear, myobrace)
The most common are: rapid palatal expander (RPE) for upper jaw narrowness, habit-breaker plates (thumb sucking), myofunctional appliances (myobrace, EF Line), and, in select cases, headgear or space-maintainer combinations. The choice is made for each child after clinical and cephalometric evaluation.
What happens if early orthodontic treatment is not performed?
Untreated orthodontic problems become structural as growth completes. Upper jaw narrowness becomes fixed; crossbite creates permanent asymmetry; in adulthood the only options may be orthognathic surgery or extraction-based orthodontics.
How much does it cost?
Early orthodontic fees vary by appliance type, treatment duration, and clinical plan. Per Turkish Dental Association (TDB) regulations, pricing is not shared on the website; after the clinical examination, a written fee covering all stages of your treatment plan is provided.
Should I choose braces or clear aligners?
Phase 1 (ages 7–10) typically uses a plate or appliance; in Phase 2 (age 11+), braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign First are evaluated. Detailed comparison and age matrix: /en/blog/braces-vs-clear-aligners-children-comparison
Advantages
- Prevention of serious orthodontic problems (Phase 1 intervention)
- Shorter and easier Phase 2 treatment in adolescence
- Leveraging the growth potential (upper jaw expansion)
- Reduced need for future extractions or surgery
- Improved self-confidence and social adjustment
- Correction of harmful habits (thumb sucking, mouth breathing)
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