The aim of orthodontic treatment is not only to correct crooked teeth and jaw misalignments to provide an aesthetic contribution. Another important role is to prevent potential tooth decay, gum diseases, and joint problems.

This process includes both theoretical and hands-on clinical training.

In addition to this:

• Children who breathe through their mouth or have adenoid problems
• Those who have used a pacifier for a long period of time
• Those with a thumb-sucking habit
• Those with a cleft lip or palate
• Those with missing teeth or who have suffered a strong blow to the jaw
• Children whose mother or father has a significantly protruded upper or lower jaw
• Cases observed as “buck teeth” (children whose upper front teeth are too far forward are at a much higher risk of breaking them in a fall)
• Children who have had early extraction of milk teeth for any reason
• Any child suspected of having dental crowding

…should definitely be examined by an orthodontic specialist.

Preventing or correcting possible disorders related to the jaw joint. Orthodontic treatment should also be carried out to address tooth wear, facial or head pain caused by teeth grinding or other orthodontic disorders.

During the period when baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are erupting, the orthodontist will act like a traffic officer, guiding the teeth to emerge and position themselves in their proper paths without colliding with each other. Different ages may be appropriate for treating different orthodontic anomalies. At the first orthodontist visit, the orthodontist—based on clinical experience and foresight—will inform the family whether an orthodontic anomaly is likely to develop and determine the most suitable time for treatment. Certain harmful habits, such as thumb sucking, can be eliminated at an early age with the help of an orthodontist.

Harmful habits: Habits such as thumb sucking, lip biting or sucking, prolonged use of bottles or pacifiers, nail biting, or biting objects like pencils can apply unwanted pressure on the teeth, leading to serious orthodontic problems. With early diagnosis and intervention, these issues can be treated easily before they become severe.

Airway problems: When there are obstructions in the airways that hinder breathing, children may breathe through their mouth to get enough air. Over time, this can hinder proper development of the jawbones and cause dental misalignments. In such cases, the orthodontist and an ENT specialist may need to work together. Some of these airway obstructions include tonsillitis, polyps, and adenoid vegetations.

Genetic factors: Most orthodontic problems are hereditary, meaning they are passed down from parents or other relatives. Skeletal orthodontic issues, in particular, often have genetic origins.

Nutritional disorders: In individuals with inadequate nutrition, the jaw and facial structures may not develop sufficiently. As a result, teeth of normal size may not find the space they need, leading to crowding or even impaction.

Misalignments can also occur during the eruption of wisdom teeth or as a result of the extraction of permanent teeth.