Pediatric Orthodontics in Lugano: When to Start and Why It Matters

 

🦷What Is Pediatric Orthodontics?

Pediatric orthodontics focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusions and developmental anomalies of teeth and jawbones in young patients. The goal is to correct misalignments early and guide the healthy growth of dental arches, promoting proper chewing, speech, and breathing functions.

The approach is always personalized, aimed at preventing conditions that could otherwise require more complex or invasive treatments in adulthood. Early intervention often leads to more stable, long-lasting results.

When Should Children Have Their First Orthodontic Visit?

The Italian Society of Orthodontics and leading international associations recommend scheduling the first orthodontic visit around age 6, when the first permanent teeth start to emerge. This stage is critical for detecting issues in jaw growth and tooth eruption.

Signs That Suggest an Early Evaluation May Be Needed:

• Crowded, crooked, or widely spaced teeth

• Crossbite, open bite, or deep bite

• Protruding upper front teeth

• Difficulty closing the mouth properly

• Bad habits (thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, mouth breathing)

Even without visible symptoms, a specialist evaluation can uncover hidden issues and allow for the best preventive care.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care

Choosing a pediatric orthodontic evaluation at our clinic in Lugano offers many advantages:

• Prevention of severe malocclusions: correcting small issues early reduces the need for extensive future treatment.

• Guiding jaw growth: at a young age, bones are still developing, allowing more effective corrections.

• Avoiding extractions: many children can retain all permanent teeth with early intervention.

• Improved chewing and speech: a proper bite supports healthy eating and speech development.

• Eliminating bad habits: early advice can prevent long-term damage from poor oral habits.

What Is Interceptive Orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics targets problems during early development before they become permanent. These treatments are often simple and non-invasive—like removable devices or palatal expanders—that guide jaw growth and tooth alignment.

When Is It Recommended?

• Narrow palate or crossbite

• Delayed or misaligned eruption of permanent teeth

• Harmful habits (pacifier, thumb sucking)

• Protruding incisors at risk of trauma

With interceptive orthodontics, children may avoid longer and more complex treatments later in adolescence.

Types of Orthodontic Devices for Children

Orthodontic appliances for children include:

• Removable appliances: used for mild alignment issues or to break bad habits. Easy to use and clean.

• Fixed appliances: metal or aesthetic brackets for moderate to severe malocclusions.

• Palatal expanders: used to widen narrow dental arches.

• Habit-correcting devices: such as tongue cribs or bite appliances to eliminate harmful behaviors.

The specialist will choose the most appropriate device based on age, cooperation, and diagnosis.

The Importance of Parent-Orthodontist Cooperation

Successful pediatric orthodontic treatment depends heavily on teamwork between parents, the child, and the orthodontic team. Parents play a key role in motivating children, ensuring proper appliance use, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Tips for Parents:

• Involve your child in choosing their appliance (colors, styles, etc.)

• Attend regular check-ups together

• Turn treatment into a positive, rewarding experience

• Encourage a daily hygiene routine with age-appropriate products

Oral Hygiene for Children with Braces

During orthodontic treatment, proper dental hygiene is essential. Food and plaque can accumulate around appliances, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation.

Best Practices for Clean Teeth:

• Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste

• Use interdental brushes and floss designed for braces

• Schedule professional cleanings at the clinic

• Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that may damage appliances

At Studio Bakaj, our hygienist offers personalized hygiene instructions and support for both children and parents.

Long-Term Prevention and Monitoring

Effective pediatric orthodontics doesn’t end after the first phase. Regular follow-ups are key to tracking growth, detecting new issues early, and maintaining long-term success.

Why Follow-Up Matters:

• Maintains long-lasting results

• Prevents relapse

• Supports your child’s motivation

• Allows timely adjustments if needed

Choosing a specialized orthodontic clinic in Lugano—like Studio Bakaj—means investing in your child’s long-term health and confidence.

Pediatric orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a foundation for lifelong dental and overall health. A timely visit, early diagnosis, and targeted therapy can truly make a difference.

👉 Want to schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit in Lugano? Contact us today at Studio Bakaj—where young smiles grow strong and confident.