2nd Stage of Growth -- 7 - 12 years

 Mixed Dentition (Baby and Adult) Teeth

Interception / Orthopaedic and Dental Correction

In this second stage of development we can assess if dento-facial (bony) and orthodontic problems are likely to occur. X-rays can show if teeth are missing, if any extra or abnormal teeth are developing, if dental crowding is likely and if the jaws are properly developed and aligned. We can look again for bad habits, e.g. thumb-sucking; poor swallowing; mouth-breathing; poor body posture; soft, sugary or acidic diet.

Some of the common treatments in this stage are :

*   Development of narrow arches with expansion appliances, either removable or fixed

*   Correction of dental cross-bites (which can restrict growth and damage teeth)

*   Aligning permanent incisors with partial braces

*   Myo-functional Training appliances

*   Training for correct breathing, swallowing habits and posture

*   Biobloc Orthotropics® for maximising correct facial growth

*   Referral to specialists ENT’s, Allergists, Cranial Osteopaths, Chiropractors etc

This is a good age to start treatment as your child’s hard and soft tissues are usually very responsive to orthodontic and orthopaedic guidance.  Success is dependent on good co-operation and may mean little or no later treatment is required.