Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and correcting problems with tooth and jaw alignment. These issues can affect bite function, oral hygiene, jaw comfort, and appearance. Orthodontic needs change with age because children, teenagers, and adults have different stages of dental and jaw development.
For this reason, orthodontists tailor treatment plans to suit the needs of each age group. Orthodontic clinics offer various treatment options designed to improve function, enhance appearance, and support long-term oral health. As a result, orthodontic care is structured differently for children, teenagers, and adults.
The National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) observed adult orthodontic patients increased by more than 50% between 2011 and 2017; from 244 to 375 patients. Preliminary data revealed a 4 to 5% increase in adult patients after 2020. While this reflects growing awareness among adults, orthodontic needs still vary widely across age groups. Children often require guidance for jaw growth, teenagers undergo correction during peak developmental years, and adults may seek treatment to address long-standing issues or aesthetic goals.
How Orthodontic Care Differs Across Age Groups
Orthodontic care is influenced by the stage of dental and jaw development. Children, teenagers, and adults each have unique needs, timing considerations, and treatment goals. Understanding these differences helps orthodontists tailor treatment in a way that is effective and appropriate for each age group.
1. Orthodontic Treatment for Children
Childhood is a key period for orthodontic assessment because the jaws are still developing. Orthodontists may use growth-modifying appliances, space maintainers, or partial braces to address issues such as crowding, crossbites, or bite problems. Early intervention can encourage proper jaw development and reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
2. Orthodontic Treatment for Teenagers
During teenage years, most permanent teeth are already present, making this the most common stage for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. At this age, orthodontists can address alignment issues, bite problems, and spacing concerns in a structured way. Braces and clear aligners are frequently used to achieve these goals, helping to straighten teeth, improve bite function, and enhance appearance. Ongoing jaw growth also allows orthodontists to guide teeth and jaws into better positions.
3. Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
For adults, orthodontic treatment often focuses on correcting issues that have developed over time, such as crowding, bite irregularities, or shifting teeth. Modern orthodontic options, such as discreet appliances let adults receive treatment with minimal disruption to their daily routines. With a personalised plan, adults can improve both function and appearance at any stage of life.
Dental and jaw development varies across age groups, and orthodontists factor these differences into treatment planning for children, teenagers, and adults.
How Orthodontic Treatment Is Structured
Orthodontic treatment follows a clear and systematic process, ensuring that each plan is appropriate for the patient’s dental condition, stage of development, and treatment goals.
1. Initial Consultation and Evaluation:
The orthodontist begins by reviewing the patient’s dental and medical history, followed by an examination of the teeth, bite, and jaw relationship. X-rays, photographs, and digital scans provide additional insights into root positions, jaw growth patterns, and overall alignment. This comprehensive evaluation forms the basis for an accurate diagnosis.
2. Designing a Treatment Plan:
After the assessment, the orthodontist identifies issues that require correction, such as crowding, spacing, bite discrepancies, or jaw irregularities. They establish clear treatment objectives and determine which approach will best achieve them. The chosen method may involve braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, depending on the patient’s age, dental needs, and lifestyle considerations.
3. The Treatment Phase:
The orthodontist places the selected appliance and makes gradual adjustments to guide the teeth and jaws into improved alignment. Patients return for periodic appointments, during which the orthodontist monitors progress, modifies the appliance as needed, and ensures movement is occurring safely. The pace and sequence of these adjustments vary according to individual needs and treatment goals.
4. Retention and Maintaining Results
The patient transitions into the retention phase after treatment. This stage ensures teeth stay in their new positions as the surrounding bone and tissues stabilise. Retainers may be fixed or removable, depending on the patient’s needs and the type of movement that was achieved. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor stability and address any issues with retainer fit or wear.
Orthodontic Care at PKWY Dental Specialist Practice
Patients can expect a structured process that covers diagnosis, active treatment, and retention, with support provided at every stage. PKWY Dental Specialist Practice combines modern techniques with specialist expertise to deliver orthodontic care appropriate for each patient’s needs and stage of dental development. Get in touch with PKWY Dental Specialist Practice to schedule a consultation.
