Prevention of bite abnormalities in children - Dr. Tavaklian
Dr. Elham Tavaklian
تهرانPediatric dental specialist
Prevention of bite malocclusion in children
Prevention of bite malocclusion in children: specialized orthodontic solutions
Bite malocclusion or malocclusion is one of the most common problems It is a tooth in children that can negatively affect their oral health, chewing performance, speech and self-confidence. According to the guidelines of the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), prevention of malocclusion in children can reduce the need for complex orthodontic treatments by 60%. These anomalies, including crowding, openbite, crossbite, and class II and III malocclusion, are seen in 20 to 30% of children and have a similar prevalence in Iran. This article aims to provide specialized solutions for the treatment of jaw and teeth abnormalities in children, helping parents and professionals to design an effective program for children's mouth and jaw health.
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ToggleWhat is a malocclusion and why is it important to prevent it?
A malocclusion refers to a misalignment of the teeth and jaws, such as an open bite, crossbite, or excessive overjet. According to the NIDCR, this problem is more common in children ages 6 to 12 and can lead to childhood speech bite abnormalities, difficulty chewing, and cosmetic issues. The AAPD emphasizes that malocclusion is not only an appearance problem, but also increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease because misaligned teeth are harder to clean. In Iran, about 25% of urban children suffer from moderate to severe malocclusion, which can be managed by preventing bite malocclusion in children.
The main causes of bite malocclusion include genetic factors (such as small jaw size), incorrect oral habits (finger sucking or long-term pacifier) and early loss of milk teeth. The AAPD reports that losing a baby tooth before age 8 increases the risk of a malformed bite by 40 percent. Choosing a specialist pediatric dentist, such as Dr. Elham Tavaklian, can help prevent and treat jaw and teeth abnormalities in children.
Bite malocclusion risk factors in childrenAAPD and NIDCR divide risk factors for malocclusion into three categories:
Genetic: small jaw size or inherited craniofacial abnormalities, such as rare syndromes.
Behavioral: incorrect habits such as sucking finger (in 30% of children up to age 4), mouth breathing due to allergies or nasal obstruction, and tongue pressure.
Dental: Early childhood caries (ECC), early loss of baby teeth or delayed eruption of permanent teeth.
NIDCR studies show that children who continue to suck their fingers after age 4 are 50% more likely to have an open bite. A high-sugar diet that leads to ECC increases the risk of tooth loss and bite malformations. In Iran, with a 25% prevalence of ECC, it is important to pay attention to these factors for treatment of children's open bite with non-invasive methods.
Methods for diagnosing malocclusion in children
Methods for diagnosing malocclusion in children is one of the most important steps in prevention and treatment. AAPD recommends that children undergo an orthodontic evaluation beginning at age 6, when the first permanent molar erupts. This evaluation is done using panoramic images, cephalometry and intraoral scanners. The Orthodontic Risk Assessment (ORA) tool is also used to identify oral habits and risk factors. NIDCR reports that early detection can reduce the need for orthodontic braces by 35%. Pediatric dentists, such as Dr. Elham Tavaklian, can detect abnormalities in time by using these diagnostic methods.
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Bite malocclusion or malocclusion in children can cause significant speech complications, including defects in the pronunciation of sounds, reduced speech clarity, and difficulties in pronouncing certain letters such as "s", "sh" and "t". These problems occur due to misalignment of the teeth and jaws, such as an openbite or crossbite, which disrupts the coordination of the tongue, lips, and palate. According to the NIDCR report, about 20-30% of children with moderate to severe malocclusion have speech disorders that can reduce their confidence in social communication. Early interventions, such as Prevention of bite abnormalities in children is possible with early screening, leaving oral habits and preserving milk teeth. This approach not only reduces treatment costs, but also improves the oral health and quality of life of children. Parents are encouraged to consult pediatric dentists, such as Dr. Elham Tavaklian, and take advantage of AAPD and NIDCR resources. For more information and to receive specialized services, contact Dr. Elham Tavaklian's office. Key words: prevention of bite abnormalities in children, treatment Malocclusion in children, prevention of malocclusion with spacers in children, treatment of children's open bite with non-invasive methods, methods of diagnosing malocclusion in children, complications of bite malocclusion in children's speech Resources: AAPD Reference Manual 2024-2025, NIDCR Children’s Oral Health, Journal of Orthodontics (2025-2023).Abnormality BiteConclusion: A healthy smile with prevention and specialized treatment
Silver therapy of children's teeth
