What is the best age for dental arch expansion?
The best age for dental arch expansion is around 12 to 15 years old, when the child's teeth replacement period has completely ended. Selecting the appropriate time for orthodontic treatment ensures better results and a shorter correction period. During the correction period, it is important to avoid excessive speed and proceed gradually to prevent other oral problems.
The optimal age for dental arch expansion is around 12-15 years old. Around 12 years old is when the teeth replacement period ends, meaning all deciduous teeth have fallen out, and the permanent teeth have grown in. This is the best age for orthodontic treatment. Girls can start slightly earlier, 1-2 years, as some girls develop earlier.
It is crucial to select suitable cases for dental arch expansion, as most arch expanders act directly on the teeth. If the teeth are already slightly inclined outwards, further expansion may exacerbate the inclination. Therefore, arch expansion is suitable for cases with both narrow hard palate, high palate vault, and slightly inward-inclined teeth. This method is ideal for creating sufficient space.
Before starting arch expansion, it is necessary to take X-rays, including a lateral cephalometric film and a panoramic radiograph. These images are provided to the doctor for analysis and measurement to formulate a treatment plan.
