Child Orthodontics

An orthodontic assessment in children is not only necessary when the teeth already appear crowded. Jaw growth, bite relationships, tooth eruption and oral habits may also need to be assessed during childhood.

At Ozant Dental Clinic in Metehan, Nicosia, an orthodontic evaluation is recommended when a problem is noticed and by approximately seven years of age. At this stage, both primary and permanent teeth may be present, allowing the orthodontist to assess jaw growth, space requirements and bite development. An early assessment does not mean that every child will need immediate treatment.

Why Is Around Age 7 Important for a First Orthodontic Assessment?

Around the age of seven, children are usually entering a mixed dentition stage. Some primary teeth remain while permanent teeth have begun to erupt.

This allows the orthodontist to evaluate more than tooth alignment. Jaw relationships, bite development, available space and the eruption of permanent teeth can also be assessed.

If My Child's Teeth Look Straight, Is an Orthodontic Assessment Still Necessary?

Sometimes, yes. Straight-looking front teeth do not necessarily mean that the bite and jaw relationships are developing normally.

Crossbite, a narrow upper jaw, jaw discrepancies or unerupted teeth may not always be obvious to parents.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist Earlier?

An earlier orthodontic assessment may be appropriate if you notice:

• A visibly prominent or retrusive upper or lower jaw
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• A narrow upper dental arch
• Significant crowding
• Limited space for erupting teeth
• Delayed or abnormal eruption of permanent teeth
• Persistent thumb sucking or dummy use
• Persistent mouth breathing
• A jaw shift when biting

These signs do not automatically mean that orthodontic treatment is required. They indicate that growth and bite development may benefit from professional assessment.

Does an Early Orthodontic Assessment Mean Early Treatment?

No. One of the main goals of early assessment is to determine whether treatment is necessary and, if so, when the most appropriate time may be.

Some children only need periodic monitoring. In selected cases, crossbite, significant jaw discrepancies or space problems may be considered for treatment during growth.

The aim is not to begin orthodontic treatment as early as possible, but to provide the appropriate treatment at the appropriate stage of development.

What Is Checked During a Child's First Orthodontic Consultation?

An orthodontic consultation may include assessment of:

• Tooth eruption
• Available space for permanent teeth
• Upper and lower jaw relationships
• Crossbite, open bite and deep bite
• Jaw development
• Facial profile
• Oral habits
• Breathing patterns where relevant
• Digital records or imaging when clinically required

Children's Orthodontics in Nicosia, Cyprus

Ozant Dental Clinic provides orthodontic care for children and adults in Metehan, Nicosia. The clinical team includes three orthodontists: Dr. Ahmet Ozant, Dr. Yusuf Ozant and Dr. Eda Şahin Ozant.

If you notice crowding, bite problems, differences in jaw development or unusual tooth eruption, an orthodontic assessment may help determine whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate.

Ozant Dental Clinic is located at Ali Güçlü Street No:46, Metehan, Nicosia, Cyprus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I wait until all of my child's primary teeth have fallen out?

No. Certain jaw and bite problems can be identified before all permanent teeth have erupted.

Does every seven-year-old need braces?

No. An orthodontic consultation may result in treatment, monitoring or no immediate intervention.

Can my child have an orthodontic problem even if the teeth look straight?

Yes. Some jaw and bite problems may not be visible simply by looking at the front teeth.

Can children be treated with clear aligners?

Clear aligners may be considered in selected cases. Suitability depends on dental development, bite, required tooth movements and the child's ability to follow the treatment plan.