How is pediatric orthodontics different from adult orthodontics?

The goals are different. Pediatric orthodontics uses the growing jaw to secure space for the permanent teeth and balance the jaws. Adult orthodontics moves teeth that are already in place to improve alignment and the bite.

Does every child need orthodontic treatment?

No. If the examination shows no problems, we simply monitor growth and begin treatment only if it becomes necessary.

When is the best time for a pediatric orthodontic check-up?

We recommend a first check-up at around age 7 to 8 (1st to 2nd grade), once the upper and lower front teeth have come in.

If my child has early treatment, can they skip a second phase?

Early treatment can reduce growth-related problems so that a second phase is unnecessary or simpler, but depending on how growth unfolds, a second phase may still be needed.

Does the appliance stay in all the time?

Depending on your child's condition, a removable or fixed appliance is used, and we advise on wear time according to the treatment plan.

What if my child finds the appliance uncomfortable?

We allow an adjustment period and adjust wear time as needed. If discomfort persists, the type of appliance can be changed.

Pediatric Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment that assesses the balance of a growing child's teeth and jaws to lay the foundation for proper alignment

What is pediatric orthodontics?

Pediatric orthodontics uses a child's jaw-growth period to create space for the permanent teeth to erupt and correct the balance between the teeth and jaws.

It monitors the development of the growing jaws and teeth together, helping the permanent teeth that are yet to come settle into their proper positions.

Not every child needs orthodontic treatment. However, if a jaw-size discrepancy, insufficient space for the permanent teeth, or misplaced teeth is suspected, a thorough examination at the right time is recommended.

RECOMMENDED CASE

Who is this treatment for?

If a problem with your child's jaw growth or permanent tooth alignment is suspected, an accurate examination is needed before the growth window closes.

One jaw is larger or smaller
When the growth of the upper and lower jaws is out of balance
Not enough room for permanent teeth
When the space for erupting teeth is narrow or insufficient
Permanent teeth erupting incorrectly
When teeth come in crooked or out of position
Front teeth bite in reverse
When the upper and lower front teeth appear to meet the wrong way round
Difficulty closing the lips
When the mouth does not close easily or protrusion is suspected

We assess jaw growth and space for the permanent teeth together to plan the orthodontic approach your child needs.

With growth-related problems, not missing the right window is what matters most.

Book a Pediatric Orthodontic Consultation

CHECK-UP TIMING

In pediatric orthodontics, timing is everything

An examination once the upper and lower front teeth have come in allows us to check growth direction and space for the permanent teeth in advance.

Recommended first check-up

Age 7 to 8

Around 1st to 2nd grade of elementary school

By this stage all the upper and lower front teeth have come in, making it a good time to check the space for permanent teeth and the direction of jaw growth.

Follow-up after growth

Age 11 to 12

Around 5th to 6th grade of elementary school

If early treatment is judged unnecessary, we reassess whether a second phase of treatment is needed once growth has progressed further.

PROCESS

Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment Process

We assess your child's stage of growth and dental development and proceed step by step at the appropriate time.

STEP. 01
Growth Assessment
We examine tooth alignment, jaw growth, and the eruption of the permanent teeth.
STEP. 02
Determining the Need for Treatment
We analyze space for the permanent teeth, jaw balance, and the bite to determine whether early orthodontic treatment is needed.
STEP. 03
Customized Appliance
Depending on your child's condition, a removable appliance or a growth-modification appliance is used.
STEP. 04
Growth Monitoring and Follow-Up
We monitor changes in the teeth and jaws regularly and assess whether a second phase of treatment will be needed.

Pediatric Orthodontics: Frequently Asked Questions

Asked in the patient's words, answered in the expert's.

A. The goals are different. Pediatric orthodontics uses the growing jaw to secure space for the permanent teeth and balance the jaws. Adult orthodontics moves teeth that are already in place to improve alignment and the bite.

Infection-controlled treatment area at Seoul Top Dental Hospital

Rigorous infection control for a safe treatment environment.

From the air in our treatment rooms to every instrument we use, everything is managed through a systematic sterilization process.

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Dental stories patients want to hear

Complex dental treatments and the care information you have wondered about, shared through videos by the doctors and patients of Seoul Top Dental Hospital.