Orthodontics for children
Expert orthodontic care for children during their most important developmental years. We make early visits calm and useful, clarifying what’s happening now, what to watch for, and when treatment will make the most difference.
Growing smiles confidently
Between the ages of 6 and 11, children are still growing and their smiles are changing quickly. At this stage, both baby teeth and permanent teeth are present, and the bones of the face and jaws are developing.
Our approach for children
At Lucan Orthodontics, we believe in keeping treatment for children as simple as possible, only recommending early intervention when it is truly necessary and when the results will be predictable and stable in the long-term. During this stage we look out for:
Baby teeth
Whether baby teeth are being replaced in the right sequence and permanent teeth are coming through properly.
Incoming teeth
Whether there is enough space for incoming teeth, reducing the chance of teeth becoming stuck in the bone.
Habits
Habits such as thumb-sucking or prolonged dummy use, and mouth breathing, which can lead to bite problems and narrow palates.
Narrow palate
Issues such as a narrow palate, which may affect the bite and breathing.
Jaw development
Growth of the jaws, to ensure the teeth fit together correctly.
Teeth alignment
Protruding front teeth, which may be at greater risk of injury.
Space maintainers
Space maintenance, if a baby tooth is lost too early.
Lip anatomy
We check how the lip is attached to the gum, as it can sometimes affect spacing or gum health.
How Treatment Works
Not every child needs active orthodontic treatment at this age. Often, we recommend regular monitoring to make sure growth and tooth replacement are progressing well. When treatment is advised, it may involve simple appliances designed to guide growth, protect teeth, and prevent future problems.
Parents are always kept fully informed and involved. Progress is explained clearly at each visit, and children are supported and encouraged to take an active role in their treatment.
Treatment options
Most early visits end with simple reassurance and a plan to keep an eye on how things are developing. If we do recommend early treatment, it is because the timing is right and it can make a real difference while your child is still growing.
Common early treatments include:
• Space maintainers: If a baby tooth is lost early, we can keep the space open so adult teeth have room to come in properly.
• Functional appliances: A removable appliance that helps guide jaw growth and improve how the top and bottom teeth fit together.
• Jaw expansion: A gentle way to widen a narrow upper jaw over time - with regular check-ins - and make more space as the smile develops.
• Guidance for emerging teeth: When an adult tooth is coming in awkwardly, we can help guide it into a better position early on.
Explore related pages
Treatment prices
We offer flexible and interest-free financing options
Becoming a patient
Personalised orthodontic care tailored to individual needs
Treatments offered
Braces, aligners and specialist appliances for all ages.