Dr. Pogiso Letswere DDS, FICOI, FICD

Your Family Dentist Dental Clinic

+267-316-4522

Unit 2, Plot 42794, Phakalane Medical Centre
 Phakalane, Gaborone | Botswana, FM

Orthodontic Consultations

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening for children 7 years old, by which age they most likely have some of their permanent teeth. Visiting a regular dentist alone is not sufficient. All children should be evaluated by an orthodontist to make sure that their mouths and jaws are developing normally. Typically, this preliminary consultation is free of charge, and consists of the orthodontist's performing an oral examination, taking a full dental history, and answering questions. The purposes of orthodontic treatment, both aesthetic and functional, are discussed.

Indications for Early Orthodontic Treatment

Even before a child turns 7, it is prudent to schedule an orthodontic consultation if he or she has the following:

  • Protruding teeth
  • Teeth that do not meet properly
  • Misplaced or crooked teeth
  • Difficulty biting or chewing
  • Speech difficulties

Depending on the severity of the problem, the orthodontist may simply want to monitor the child, or intervene immediately.

Subsequent Orthodontic Consultations

The orthodontist checks the child's mouth during the first visit to determine if there is a problem; if so, the child is examined at regular intervals. During future visits, a full set of panoramic dental X-rays is taken, and impressions of the child's mouth are made. If it is determined that orthodontic treatment is required, the steps of such treatment, including possible extractions, types of appliances, and likely duration and cost of treatment, are discussed.

The treatment schedule is then set up. Treatment usually begins with any necessary extractions, and then proceeds to fitting the braces. The child can expect to visit the orthodontist approximately once every 6 weeks for exams and adjustments.

Once the braces are removed, which can be after several months or as long as 2 years, the child is fitted with a retainer, a device worn during sleep to keep the teeth from returning to their original, problematic positions. During this period, consultation with the orthodontist is infrequent.

Additional Resources