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Child in the mixed dentition smiling

Orthodontics in the mixed dentition

The transitional phase in which baby teeth are gradually replaced by the permanent teeth is called the mixed dentition.

If no particular features have appeared in the primary dentition, the eighth to ninth year of life is the ideal age for the first orthodontic examination.

In this phase we usually work with removable braces – for example single plates or functional orthodontic appliances such as a bionator.

Common measures in this phase

  • aligning tipped teeth back into the row of teeth
  • correcting individual teeth that are in an edge-to-edge or crossbite position
  • creating space for the teeth that follow
  • correcting jaw misalignments, for example a retrognathic bite

We can make targeted use of the expected pubertal growth spurt and the development of the facial bones – this is gentle on your child and improves the overall picture along the way.

The most important points at a glance

  • The mixed dentition is the phase in which baby teeth are gradually replaced by permanent teeth.
  • Without any abnormalities in the primary dentition, the eighth to ninth year of life is the ideal age for the first orthodontic examination.
  • In this phase we usually work with removable braces, for example single plates or a bionator.
  • Typical measures: aligning tipped teeth, correcting a cross or edge-to-edge bite, creating space, correcting a retrognathic bite.
  • The pubertal growth spurt can be used specifically for the correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mixed dentition?
That is the name for the transitional phase in which the baby teeth are gradually replaced by the permanent teeth. It usually begins around the sixth year of life and is particularly important from an orthodontic point of view.
When is the best time for the first orthodontic examination?
If no particularities have appeared in the baby dentition, the 8th to 9th year of life is a good time. If there were already noticeable findings there, we take a look earlier.
Does my child already get a fixed brace in this phase?
Usually not. In the mixed dentition we generally work with removable braces. Fixed appliances are customarily used later, when the permanent teeth are there.
What is a bionator?
A bionator is a removable, functional orthodontic appliance. It guides jaw growth via the musculature and is used above all in the mixed dentition.
Why is the growth spurt used for the treatment?
As long as the jaw and the facial bones are still growing, misalignments can be regulated with less effort. That is gentler on your child and improves the overall picture along the way.