Using fixed appliances to correct bites in mixed dentition can effectively achieve proper dental alignment and improve oral health. Fixed appliances like braces are commonly used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. These appliances consist of brackets attached to the teeth and connected by archwires that apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into their correct positions over time.
Mixed dentition refers to a child’s dental development period when they have both primary (baby) and permanent teeth. This typically occurs between the ages of six and twelve. During this time, children may develop bite problems, such as an overbite or underbite, that require orthodontic treatment.
Fixed appliances, such as braces, are often used to correct bite problems in mixed dentition. When using fixed appliances in mixed dentition, it’s important to consider the child’s ongoing dental development. This means that the orthodontist must carefully plan the timing of the treatment to ensure that it does not interfere with the eruption of permanent teeth.
Children with mixed dentition may have a greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to the presence of both primary and permanent teeth. Therefore, maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout the treatment process.
Fixed appliances can effectively correct bite problems in mixed dentition but require careful planning and maintenance to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Conclusion
Screening patients for interceptive orthodontics at a young age is recommended before it becomes too late to make a difference. There are some easy and affordable interceptive techniques that can be used to improve orthodontic health and future outcomes, such as the nance appliance and the anterior bite plate. The Nance appliance is a space maintainer that can also help correct class 2 malocclusion and hold teeth back from sliding forward, while the anterior bite plate is used to correct a deep bite. Both appliances can be easily inserted and monitored to help patients without requiring extensive braces or aligners.