Children’s orthodontics is the area of dentistry focused on the care and correction of dental and skeletal irregularities in children. At Moonz dental clinics, we have teams dedicated exclusively to this field, ensuring your child is treated by experienced and highly trained professionals. If you have any questions about children’s orthodontics, feel free to contact us for more information or to book a free initial consultation with our orthodontists.
The Spanish Society of Orthodontics (SEDO) recommends that the first orthodontic visit takes place at the age of six. This is a key stage, as the first permanent molars usually erupt around this time, allowing the orthodontist to assess the bite and detect any potential skeletal issues that could worsen as the child grows. Contrary to what many parents believe, it’s important not to wait until all baby teeth have been replaced before scheduling this first visit. Even if primary (baby) teeth are still present, it is advisable to see an orthodontist when the child turns six.
In general, children’s orthodontic treatment can begin from the age of six, depending on the type of treatment. Interceptive orthodontics is usually recommended for children between six and nine years old, while corrective orthodontics is typically more suitable from the age of 11 or 12, when the jawbones (upper jaw and lower jaw) have developed.
Children’s orthodontics includes different types of treatments designed to correct a wide range of dental and skeletal issues.
Interceptive orthodontics is used to treat younger children, usually between the ages of six and nine. This type of treatment focuses on guiding the growth of the jawbones and correcting harmful oral habits, such as mouth breathing, prolonged pacifier use, or atypical swallowing.
The main appliances used at this stage include palatal expanders, face masks, and Twin Block appliances.
Corrective orthodontics focuses on aligning the teeth once the jawbones have fully developed. These treatments typically begin around the age of 11 or 12 and may include fixed appliances (metal or aesthetic braces) or removable options (clear aligners).
To determine whether a child needs orthodontic treatment, it is essential to visit an orthodontist. During a check-up, the specialist will assess the position of the teeth, the bite (occlusion), and the development of the jawbones.
Some signs that may indicate a child needs orthodontic treatment include:
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it is advisable to visit a paediatric orthodontist for a thorough evaluation. At Moonz dental clinics, the initial consultation is free.
Children’s orthodontics offers many benefits for oral health, smile aesthetics, and overall development:
In general, children’s orthodontic treatments can last from around six months to 24 months, depending on the type of treatment, the complexity of the case, and the child’s stage of growth. Interceptive orthodontics is usually shorter, while corrective orthodontics may require a longer period.
The appropriate age for braces is typically around 11 or 12 years old, when the jawbones are more developed and the permanent teeth have erupted.
The cost of braces can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the type of braces chosen (metal or aesthetic), and the duration of the treatment. To receive a personalised quote, it is necessary to visit a Moonz dental clinic and be assessed by an orthodontist.
Doctor Rodrigo Villaverde has a Degree in Dentistry from Universidad de Salamanca and is specialised in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics by Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz. He is certified in the main clear orthodontic systems such as Invisalign and Spark. Also, he is a member of the Spanish Orthodontic Society (SEDO).
