Your Child's Tooth Development and Orthodontic Needs

Q: Your Child's Tooth Development and Orthodontic Needs

Hello, Miss：<br>1. <br>Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to address your question and provide the following advice： In reality, after the upper incisors are extracted, the permanent incisors have not fully erupted yet, and there is a significant gap between the teeth.

Tooth eruption or shedding of primary teeth?

Hello Doctor: My daughter is seven years old.
She had two front teeth extracted on October 23 of this year, and as of today, they have not fully erupted yet, but there is a significant gap between her teeth.
I would like to ask: 1.
Does she need orthodontic treatment now? If so, what type of braces should be used? How long will she need to wear them? Will the cost be very expensive? 2.
She has four lower teeth that have erupted.
Initially, her lower front teeth were aligned, but after the adjacent teeth erupted, one of the lower front teeth has tilted slightly backward (the adjacent tooth has not fully erupted yet).
Is this normal? 3.
Do new teeth take some time to settle into their proper positions? Thank you!

Xiao Ru, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/12/16

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, Miss:
1.
Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to address your question and provide the following advice: In reality, after the upper incisors are extracted, the permanent incisors have not fully erupted yet, and there is a significant gap between the teeth.
This is due to the permanent incisors erupting at an outward angle, which causes the larger spacing between the front teeth.
When the upper canines begin to erupt, they can help to compress the space between the central incisors, gradually reducing the gap.
Therefore, it is advisable to observe the situation for now and refrain from orthodontic treatment temporarily.
2.
The four permanent incisors on the bottom have erupted.
The first two central incisors were originally aligned, but the later-erupting lateral incisors have affected the alignment of the central incisors.
This is because the crowns of the permanent teeth are significantly larger than those of the primary teeth, and the space in the lower dental arch has not expanded quickly enough, leading to crowding.
As the lower dental arch expands during puberty, the crowding of the lower incisors may improve.
3.
If there is sufficient space in the dental arch, the new permanent teeth can still erupt into their normal positions.
However, if the dental arch is not large enough, the teeth may temporarily become crowded together.
Finally, I wish you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2007/12/16

More Info

Understanding your child's tooth development and orthodontic needs is crucial for ensuring their dental health and overall well-being. As your daughter is currently seven years old and has recently lost two upper front teeth, it’s important to monitor her dental development closely. Here are some insights regarding your questions:
1. Do We Need Orthodontics Now?
At the age of seven, many children begin to lose their primary teeth, and it is common for there to be gaps as new teeth emerge. Whether or not your daughter needs orthodontic treatment depends on several factors, including the alignment of her teeth, the size of her dental arch, and the overall development of her jaw. If her teeth are significantly misaligned or if there are issues with her bite (the way her upper and lower teeth fit together), it may be beneficial to consult an orthodontist.
As for the type of orthodontic appliance, if there is a need for correction, an orthodontist may recommend a space maintainer, which helps keep the gap open for the permanent teeth to erupt properly. In some cases, a palatal expander might be used to widen the dental arch if there is not enough space for the new teeth. The duration of treatment can vary widely, but many children wear appliances for several months to a few years, depending on the severity of the issue. Costs can also vary significantly based on the type of treatment and the specific orthodontist, so it’s best to consult with a professional for an accurate estimate.

2. Is It Normal for Teeth to Tilt?
It is not uncommon for adjacent teeth to affect each other’s position as they erupt. If one of the lower front teeth is tilting due to the emergence of the adjacent teeth, it may be a temporary situation. As the teeth continue to grow and settle into their positions, this may correct itself. However, if the tilting persists or worsens, it would be wise to seek an evaluation from a dentist or orthodontist to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.

3. Do New Teeth Take Time to Settle?
Yes, newly erupted teeth often take some time to find their proper positions. The process of teeth moving into their final positions can take several months. During this time, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to monitor the situation. If there are concerns about the alignment or spacing of the teeth, your dentist can provide guidance on whether intervention is necessary.

In summary, while it may be too early to definitively say whether orthodontic treatment is needed, it is essential to keep an eye on your daughter’s dental development. Regular visits to the dentist will help track her progress and address any concerns as they arise. If you notice any significant issues with her teeth or bite, consulting with an orthodontist sooner rather than later can help ensure that any necessary treatment is initiated at the right time. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes in orthodontic treatment, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you have concerns.

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