Orthodontics for children
Your Child's Journey to a Healthy Smile
Galway Braces offers expert and effective orthodontic care for children
For most children, orthodontic treatment typically begins when most of their baby teeth have been lost, usually around age 11.
We sometimes see children aged 8-9 at their family dentist's request. Occasionally, younger patients may be referred by their family dentist for specific issues.
Timing is crucial, as starting treatment at the right moment can enhance jaw growth and contribute to achieving an optimal facial appearance.
Throughout orthodontic treatment, it’s especially important to protect the teeth from impacts. That’s why we include a specially designed orthodontic mouthguard as part of the treatment package, ensuring your child’s smile stays safe and protected.
Early Intervention
At Galway Braces, we recommend that children have their first orthodontic assessment around the age of 8.
This initial check-up helps us determine whether your child’s teeth are developing properly or if treatment might be needed.
Even if treatment is indicated, it doesn’t necessarily mean we will begin right away. Instead, this early evaluation allows us to monitor their development and plan for future treatment if necessary. Detecting potential issues early on enables us to provide more effective care.
When treatment starts early, the Orthodontist can effectively guide jaw growth and the positioning of incoming permanent teeth.
early treatment can often simplify and enhance future orthodontic care.
Expansion Devices
Upper Removable Appliances (URA)
A URA is a custom-made plate worn on the upper teeth. It clips in and out for cleaning. An acrylic base holds wires and small screws that apply gentle, controlled forces to move teeth and improve the bite.
Uses of URAs - Benefits
- Maintain space for developing teeth
- Guide the eruption of permanent teeth
- Carry out simple tooth movements (e.g., tipping into position)
- Reduce an overbite
Rapid maxillary expanders (RME)
An RME is a fixed appliance that gently widens the upper jaw to create space and improve the bite. It fits on the back teeth and uses a small central screw, turned as instructed, to apply light pressure. Early use can guide jaw growth and help make later treatment simpler.
Who might benefit:
Crowding or limited space for erupting teeth
A narrow upper jaw or crossbite
Bite discrepancies where widening the upper jaw is part of the plan
Functional Devices
Twin Block
A Twin Block is a pair of removable plates that interlock to posture the lower jaw forward. This helps reduce an overjet, improve the bite, and can enhance facial balance. It’s most effective during growth (children and teenagers).
Who might benefit:
Prominent overjet / Class II bite
Retrusive lower jaw contributing to bite problems
Deep bite where forward posturing assists correction
Family Friendly Payment Plans
Convenient Payment Plans
Interest free payment plans
Interest free payment plans over the course of treatment.
Family discounts available for more than 1 family member in treatment.
Convenience
Location in Galway
Our Clinic is situated in Galway, in walking distance of 6 Galway city secondary schools.
