Occlusion is an integral component of the maxillofacial complex, and its development begins early in life and continues through adolescence. Proper alignment of teeth and harmonious occlusal development are important for oral function, facial aesthetics, and psychological well-being.
Untreated malocclusions may contribute to dental caries, periodontal disease, temporomandibular disorders, abnormal craniofacial growth patterns, and compromised facial aesthetics. Early orthodontic evaluation allows clinicians to identify developing skeletal or dentoalveolar discrepancies and implement interceptive interventions where appropriate.
Core principles include:
Early orthodontic management can reduce the complexity and duration of comprehensive orthodontic treatment later in adolescence.
Age appropriate tooth alignment…
Early diagnosis and intervention of malocclusions can address developing skeletal, dentoalveolar, and muscular imbalances and reduce the need for complex orthodontic treatment in adolescence.
(Consensus-based statement; Global agreement: 98%)
Visual treatment objectives should be used to guide treatment planning and optimize occlusion and facial form during growth.
(Consensus-based statement; Global agreement: 93%)
Simple appliances and eruption guidance methods such as space maintainers, space regainers, or extraction of primary canines may be used to manage arch length discrepancies, crossbites, and minor malocclusions during the primary or early mixed dentition.
(Consensus-based statement; Global agreement: 95%)
Early management of Class II and Class III malocclusions may reduce the risk of incisal trauma and temporomandibular disorders.
(Consensus-based statement; Global agreement: 98%)
Referral to an orthodontic specialist should be considered when complex cases are identified.
(Consensus-based statement; Global agreement: 100%)
To support clinical implementation and knowledge translation, IAPD has developed complementary educational materials.
The IAPD podcast series explores evidence-based approaches to paediatric dental care and clinical decision-making.
Selected IAPD webinars address pain management strategies and clinical decision-making in paediatric dentistry.
International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD).
IAPD Foundational Articles and Recommendations on Behaviour Guidance in Paediatric Dental Patients.
Originally published 2019. Global Agreement Validation 2022.
