What is children’s tooth straightening / orthodontics?
As children’s adult teeth begin to come through, there’s often not enough room in the mouth for them to align neatly. This can lead to crowding, twisting, or teeth erupting in unusual positions. What’s really happening is that the jaw and facial bones haven’t developed quite enough space for all the teeth to fit comfortably.
While genetics play a small role, the main causes are usually environmental — such as mouth breathing, swallowing patterns, early habits, and even birth-related factors — all of which can influence how the jaws grow. The good news is that with the right guidance and treatment, we can help direct this growth so that the mouth develops as nature intended.
This approach is known as functional or orthopaedic orthodontics. It focuses on encouraging natural growth and alignment rather than simply straightening teeth after the problem appears. By guiding the development of the jaw early, we can often reduce or avoid the need for extractions and complex orthodontic work later on.
Who is children’s orthodontic treatment suitable for?
Children’s orthodontics is suitable for young patients whose teeth are crowded, misaligned, or not meeting properly when they bite. It’s also beneficial for children who breathe through their mouth, have difficulty chewing, or show signs that their jaw development is restricted. Early assessment allows us to identify and treat potential problems before they become more complicated.
How does children’s tooth straightening work?
We use custom-made removable or fixed appliances designed to gently guide the growth and positioning of the jaws and teeth. The first step is a full orthodontic assessment to measure how much development is needed and to create a tailored treatment plan.
Sometimes, retraining swallowing and breathing patterns is also part of treatment to ensure lasting, stable results. By addressing the underlying causes of crowding rather than just the symptoms, we promote long-term oral health and balanced facial development.
How long does children’s orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment typically happens in two phases, although they may overlap. The first phase focuses on encouraging healthy jaw development and creating enough space for the adult teeth to come through properly. The second phase, once all the permanent teeth are present, uses more conventional orthodontic appliances to fine-tune alignment and bite. Your dentist will discuss the best timing and approach for your child’s individual needs.
How much does children’s orthodontic treatment cost?
Because each child’s case is unique, costs can vary depending on complexity and duration. As a guide, comprehensive orthodontic treatment typically ranges between £7,000 and £9,000. A full consultation and treatment plan will be provided before any treatment begins, outlining all stages and associated costs in detail.
