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Certification
Treatment and Therapy of children and teenagers
Step by step
Treatment begins
Removable braces
Fixed braces
Invisalign® for teens
Stabilisation (retention)
Interdisciplinary measures
Step by step
We use the diagnostic records (models, X-rays and photos) to plan treatment and specify timings. We then explain each step to you in an in-depth consultation. In this session we also explain
the different treatment options and describe the various types of braces available.
Treatment begins
Children develop their final permanent teeth between the age of nine and twelve, making this the best age to start orthodontic correction. This treatment can last right to the end of puberty,
when the last back baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth, and when the facial bones are still growing. In order to prevent malalignments we guide the process of tooth eruption
and monitor the proportions of the jaws and skull in our practice. We also check the positioning of upper and lower jaws on a regular basis. We usually treat our patients with removable braces
at this stage. Depending on the type selected, these will not only influence the position of the teeth and jaw, but can also improve the chewing pattern and facilitate lip closure. If all
permanent teeth have developed, we correct existing malalignments with the aid of fixed braces (multi-bracket appliance).
Removable braces
The flexible alternative
Removable braces are available for both upper and lower jaw. They are made of plastic and are attached to the teeth with wires. We adjust them during treatment with the aid of springs and
screws, thus controlling all necessary movement. What is more, removable braces come in a whole range of colours, and all of the plastics used by us are completely healthy to use.
Fixed braces
Shining prospects
This is how it works: brackets (small metal locks) are bonded onto the teeth and are connected up with highly elastic archwires and small rubber bands or stainless steel wires (ligatures).
This enables us to apply precisely the right amount of pressure to the teeth needed to make them move to the desired position in the jaw. Sometimes it also makes sense to use additional rubber
bands or other aids, but this is something the patient decides for him or herself.
Spoilt for choice
Self-ligating brackets are a state-of-the-art variation of the fixed appliance. Their advantage is that they exert gentle pressure on the teeth, offer more efficient and thus shorter treatment
periods, and that there are longer gaps between appointments. They are also easier to clean and therefore more convenient for the patient. You don’t want your fixed braces to be noticeable?
There are alternatives to the shining metal brackets: ceramic brackets the colour of your teeth, transparent brackets made of sapphire, or invisible brackets attached to the inside of your
teeth (lingual brackets).
Invisalign® for teens
Almost invisible yet very effective
Now also available for children and teenagers, Invisalign® braces are transparent aligners that must be worn around the clock, but can be taken out for around two hours each day. They are
very thin and thus very comfortable to wear. Their advantage is that eating, dental care, engaging in sports or playing an instrument are all a lot easier and more convenient than with other
braces. An examination will quickly determine whether Invisalign® is an option for your child.
Stabilisation (retention)
When it’s nearly done
Your child’s teeth are now looking neat and healthy. For them to stay this way they need to be fixed into their new positions with a retention appliance. The stabilising phase (retention)
follows on from active therapy and is an integral part of the treatment. It’s the best way to keep that healthy smile on your child’s face.
A mutual objective
Full patient cooperation is essential for successful orthodontic treatment. You should take our recommendations on how long to wear removable braces or elastics on fixed braces seriously if
you want results to be proud of. Our advice on how long to wear the braces is tailored to each patient, taking into consideration the long, hard school day. But please note that wearing the
braces only during the night when asleep is seldom enough.
Interdisciplinary measures
Also part of the programme
An orthodontist is not always able to correct all malalignments alone. It is sometimes important to work with colleagues from the field of ENT, orthopaedics, logopaedics, physiotherapy and
osteopathy to treat muscle disorders and bad habits properly. We are proud to be able to make full use of an interdisciplinary network of specialists.
