Reviewed By
Consultant Pediatric Dentist and MDS in Pediatric Dentistry, with over 10 years of experience at Kidz N Teenz Dental Clinic. Dr. Mansoor specializes in interceptive orthodontics, conscious sedation, and care for children with special needs.
Many parents notice crooked teeth, gaps or an uneven bite in their child and wonder what to do next. Should you wait, or should you get it checked now? Acting too early can lead to care your child does not need yet. Waiting too long can mean a longer correction later. This guide explains how pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai works, the signs to watch for, the options available and what to expect at each stage. It is written to help you make a calm, informed choice for your child.
What is Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment?
Pediatric orthodontic treatment corrects the position of the teeth and jaws while a child is still growing. Because the jaw is still developing, the dentist can guide its growth instead of only moving teeth later in life. This early approach is called interceptive treatment.
Think of it like guiding a young plant. It is much easier to train a small plant to grow straight than to bend a fully grown tree. In the same way, a growing jaw responds well to gentle guidance.
It is commonly used for:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Habits like thumb sucking that change the shape of the mouth
How Children’s Teeth and Jaws Develop
Most children get their first baby tooth at around 6 months of age. By the age of 3, most have all 20 baby teeth. Between the ages of 6 and 12, the baby teeth fall out one by one and adult teeth take their place. This stage is called the mixed dentition stage, because the mouth has both baby and adult teeth.
The mixed dentition stage is an important time for orthodontic care. The jaw is still growing, and the dentist can see how the adult teeth are coming in. Small problems found now can often be corrected with simple appliances. Once growth slows in the teen years, the same problems may need longer treatment.
Baby teeth also act as natural space holders for adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early because of decay or injury, the nearby teeth can drift into the gap. This can block the adult tooth and lead to crowding. This is one reason why caring for baby teeth matters so much.
Why Timing Matters
Parents looking for pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai often ask if it is too soon to start. The right time depends on your child’s teeth, jaw growth and habits. Here is why an early check can help.
Guiding Jaw Growth
In some children, early care can help create enough room for adult teeth as they come in.
Lowering the Chance of Bigger Problems Later
Treating certain problems early may reduce the need for tooth removal or jaw surgery in the future. Every child is different, so the dentist will explain what applies to your child.
Easier Chewing and Cleaning
A balanced bite makes chewing more comfortable. Straighter teeth are also easier to brush and floss, which helps protect against cavities and gum problems. Some children also feel more at ease when they smile.
Shorter Care in the Teen Years
Correcting habits like thumb sucking, or widening a narrow upper jaw early, can sometimes shorten the time needed for braces later.
Breathing and Speech
Some bite and jaw problems are linked with mouth breathing and unclear speech. An evaluation can show whether the teeth or jaws are playing a part.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 Treatment Explained
Orthodontic care for children is often planned in two phases. Knowing the difference can help you understand what your dentist is suggesting.
Phase 1 (early treatment): This usually happens between the ages of 7 and 10, while many baby teeth are still in place. The aim is to correct jaw growth problems, stop harmful habits and make room for adult teeth. Common tools include expanders, space maintainers and simple removable appliances. Phase 1 often lasts 6 to 18 months.
Resting period: After Phase 1, there is usually a break while the remaining adult teeth come in. The dentist keeps an eye on growth through regular visits.
Phase 2 (full treatment): This usually starts once most adult teeth have come in, often between the ages of 11 and 14. Braces or aligners are used to fine tune the position of each tooth and the bite.
Not every child needs both phases. Some children only need Phase 1. Others only need treatment in their teen years. The dentist will plan what suits your child.
Signs Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Check
Watch for these signs at home:
- Baby teeth falling out much earlier or later than usual
- Trouble biting or chewing food
- Crowded teeth that are hard to clean
- Breathing through the mouth most of the time
- Snoring or restless sleep
- Thumb sucking after the age of 4
- Difficulty saying certain sounds
- Jaw that shifts or makes sounds while chewing
- Teeth that do not meet properly when the mouth is closed
- Biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth often
If you notice more than one of these, it is a good idea to book an evaluation.
Habits That Can Affect Your Child’s Teeth
Some everyday habits can slowly change the shape of the teeth and jaws.
Thumb or finger sucking: This is normal in babies and toddlers. If it continues after the age of 4, it can push the front teeth forward and narrow the upper jaw.
Pacifier use: Long term pacifier use can cause effects similar to thumb sucking.
Tongue thrusting: Some children push their tongue against the front teeth when they swallow or speak. Over time, this can cause an open bite.
Mouth breathing: Children who breathe through the mouth because of a blocked nose or large tonsils may develop a long, narrow face and crowded teeth. In such cases, the dentist may suggest a check with an ENT doctor as well.
Nail and lip biting: These habits can put extra pressure on the front teeth.
The good news is that most habits can be stopped with gentle support. Praise, reminders and, when needed, a simple habit breaking appliance can help.
Common Orthodontic Problems in Children
Crowded Teeth
This happens when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth. Depending on age, the dentist may suggest a space maintainer, an expander or braces.
Overbite (Deep Bite)
The upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth. Over time, this can wear down teeth, irritate the gums and affect speech.
Underbite
The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. This can affect jaw comfort and how the face develops. Underbites are often easier to guide when treated early.
Crossbite
Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This can put uneven pressure on the teeth and affect jaw growth on one side.
Open Bite
The front teeth do not meet when the back teeth are closed. It is often linked to thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, where the tongue pushes against the teeth while swallowing.
Spacing Problems
Wide gaps can appear when teeth are missing or smaller than usual.
Protruding Front Teeth
Upper front teeth that stick out are more likely to get hurt during falls or play. Early correction can lower this risk.
Treatment Options
Pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai is planned around each child’s needs. After a full examination, the dentist may suggest one or more of these:
- Metal braces: Strong and reliable for many types of bite problems.
- Ceramic braces: Work like metal braces but are tooth coloured, so they are less visible.
- Clear aligners: Removable clear trays, suitable for selected older children and teens who can wear them as advised.
- Space maintainers: Hold space open when a baby tooth is lost early, so the adult tooth can come in properly.
- Palatal expanders: Gently widen a narrow upper jaw to make more room.
- Habit breaking appliances: Small devices that help children stop thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
- Retainers: Keep teeth in their new position after treatment.
Not every child with crooked teeth needs braces. The dentist will recommend treatment only when it is needed.
Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment in Anna Nagar and Pallikaranai
Kidz N Teenz offers pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai at two clinics, so families in different parts of the city can reach care easily. Parents in the western side of the city can visit our clinic for pediatric orthodontic treatment in Anna Nagar, which is open through the day.
Families living in the southern suburbs can choose pediatric orthodontic treatment in Pallikaranai, with evening timings that suit school schedules. Both clinics follow the same approach to diagnosis, planning and follow up care.
Cost of Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment in Chennai
The cost of pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai is different for every child. It depends on:
- The type of appliance or braces
- Tests needed, such as dental X rays and scans
- How long treatment will take
- How complex the problem is
- Whether one phase or two phases of treatment are needed
At Kidz N Teenz, you get a clear written estimate after the examination, before any treatment begins. The dentist will also explain what is included, so there are no surprises.
What Happens During Treatment
- First consultation: The dentist checks your child’s teeth, jaws, bite and habits, and talks with you about any concerns.
- Dental X rays and digital scans: These show how the teeth and jaws are growing and help with planning.
- Treatment plan: The dentist explains the problem, the suggested treatment, how long it may take and the cost. You can ask as many questions as you like.
- Active treatment: The chosen appliance is fitted and adjusted at regular visits.
- Follow up visits: The dentist tracks progress and makes changes when needed. These visits are usually every 4 to 8 weeks.
- Retention phase: A retainer keeps the teeth stable once active treatment ends.
Helping Your Child Adjust to Braces
The first few days with braces or an appliance can feel strange. Here are some simple ways to help:
- Offer soft foods like idli, curd rice, khichdi, soup and bananas for the first few days
- Use the orthodontic wax given by the clinic if a wire or bracket rubs the cheek
- A cold drink or a cool, soft treat can ease mild soreness
- Talk to your child about what to expect before the first visit
- Praise your child for looking after their braces
Most children get used to their braces within one to two weeks.
Foods to Avoid With Braces
Some foods can break brackets or bend wires. Try to limit:
- Hard foods like nuts, hard candy and ice
- Sticky foods like toffee, chewing gum and chikki
- Foods that need biting with the front teeth, like whole apples and corn on the cob (cut them into small pieces instead)
- Sugary drinks and sweets, which raise the risk of cavities around brackets
Caring for Teeth During and After Braces
- Brush after every meal if possible, and at least twice a day
- Use a small, soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily using a floss threader or an interdental brush
- Wear the retainer as advised, especially in the first 6 to 12 months
- Keep all follow up visits
- Visit the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups
What to Do if a Bracket or Wire Comes Loose
Small problems with braces are common and usually not urgent. If a bracket comes loose or a wire pokes the cheek, cover the sharp area with orthodontic wax and call the clinic. Do not try to cut or bend the wire at home. If your child has a fall and the face or teeth are hurt, contact the clinic as soon as possible.
Tools Used for Diagnosis and Planning
- 3D digital scans: Replace messy impression trays for most children
- Digital X rays: Use a lower radiation dose than older film X rays
- Computer assisted planning: Helps the dentist plan tooth movement step by step
- Comfort focused appliances: Designed with smooth edges for young mouths
About Pediatric Orthodontic Care at Kidz N Teenz
Care at Kidz N Teenz is provided by pediatric dentists who work only with children and teens. The clinics are set up to help young patients feel calm during visits, and parents receive treatment plans and estimates before care begins. Children with special needs are also cared for, with extra time and support during visits.
Anna Nagar: 991, H Block 2nd Street, Anna Nagar West, Chennai 600040. Phone: +91 9791035666, +91 9884098240. Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM.
Pallikaranai: Plot No. 7, Kovalan Nagar, 1st Main Road, Pallikaranai, Chennai. Phone: +91 9841355088. Timings: 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Closed on Thursdays. Sundays by appointment only.
When to Book Your Child’s First Visit
Pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai works best when problems are found early. Most orthodontic guidelines suggest a first check by the age of 7, even if your child’s teeth look fine. At this age, the dentist can spot growth or bite problems while they are easier to guide. If no treatment is needed yet, the dentist will simply keep watch at regular visits.
Conclusion
A healthy bite helps your child chew well, speak clearly and keep their teeth clean for years to come. Many bite problems start early, and some are easier to guide while the jaw is still growing. Choosing pediatric orthodontic treatment in Chennai at the right time can make care simpler and shorter for your child. An early check does not always mean braces.
Often, it simply gives you a clear picture of how your child’s teeth are growing and what, if anything, needs attention. Watch for the signs listed above, help your child break harmful habits, and keep up with regular dental visits. To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Aysha Mansoor and the team, call either clinic or book a consultation online.
