Dr Dalia Latkauskiene

Title: Orthodontic Treatment : a Focus on Growth and Aligners

Abstract

Orthodontic treatment in growing patients harnesses the natural growth of the craniofacial structures to correct malocclusions and guide proper dental and skeletal development.

In early childhood (ages 6–9), treatment focuses on interceptive care to address growth-related issues such as crossbites, severe crowding, or jaw discrepancies. Functional appliances may be combined with aligners designed for mixed dentition to guide jaw growth and maintain space for erupting permanent teeth.

During late childhood and early adolescence (ages 10–14), aligner therapy can be strategically timed to coincide with peak skeletal growth. This period is ideal for addressing moderate to severe malocclusions, such as overbites, underbites, and crowding. Aligners, often combined with growth-modifying appliances, can leverage natural growth to correct jaw discrepancies and establish proper occlusion.

In late adolescence (ages 15–18), as growth slows, aligner therapy is focused on fine-tuning tooth alignment and achieving esthetic and functional goals. With skeletal growth nearly complete, treatment emphasizes detailed adjustments and stability.

By integrating aligner therapy with growth-based treatment strategies, orthodontists can provide personalized care that maximizes both skeletal and dental outcomes.