
Orthodontic plate
At what age do I wear a lamina?
The optimal age for wearing plates is from 6 to 11 years of age during the active development of the jaws. Due to the effect on the growth of muscles and bones, lip closure is normalized, the correct type of breathing is formed, the work of the chewing muscles and tongue, which have a decisive effect on the formation of the bite, is corrected, and the position of the teeth themselves is slightly corrected.The main objective of removable appliances is to correct bite irregularities, prepare for subsequent full-fledged orthodontic treatment with a bracket system, and slightly correct the evenness of the teeth.
It should be understood that the use of orthodontic plates does not 100% exclude the future wearing of a bracket system, but will reduce the period of its wear and ensure the correct development of the jaws, muscles and profile.
Design and Types of Plates
Plates are created so that the plastic base fits snugly over the palate or gums, and the metal elements hold the structure securely in the mouth. They are made individually for each child, and the design is directly related to the problems that need to be addressed.

Depending on the treatment task, the plate may have:
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Elements for turning or turning the tooth. Although the ability to move is severely limited;
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Screws to expand the jaw and create space in case of shortage;
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Tongue barrier to eliminate the habit of improper swallowing;
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Artificial teeth, if your own were removed prematurely.

The plate can work on one or both tooth rows.
As a rule, unicuspid appliances are used for about 6 months. After that, it may be necessary to wear them exclusively at night for 5 to 6 months. Bicuspid appliances are used for longer — 9 to 12 months.
Unicuspid plates require 24 hours of wear (unless your doctor recommends a different wearing regimen). It is easier for children to get used to this design, usually a few hours is sufficient.
Bicuspid appliances can interfere with speaking and eating because they take up a large amount of volume in the mouth. Accordingly, they are only worn in the evening and at night.
The plate – is a powerful tool to influence jaw growth, which can only be done at an early age

Rules for the care of orthodontic plates
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During meals, the device must be removed from the mouth (unless the doctor recommended eating and chewing in the device). It is necessary to remove the plates only by catching on special hooks on the back teeth, and, in no case, not on the front arch.
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It is necessary to clean the device 2 times a day or every time after eating, if there is food in the device.
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For cleaning, it is necessary to have a separate toothbrush and clean the device with soap from all sides, especially in the area of the exit from the plastic of metal elements and screws. Additionally, 1-2 times a week, treat the device with denture cleaning tablets.
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During physical activities, sections, swimming pools, etc., the device must be removed.
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It is necessary to ensure that the child does not play with the device, this weakens its fixation and design.
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Store the plates only in a hard container.
Pros and cons of orthodontic plates
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Personal hygiene is simplified because you can remove the appliance and thoroughly brush your teeth.
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The plate – is a powerful tool to influence jaw growth, which can only be done at an early age.
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They require follow-up visits to the orthodontist: 1 time every 4-8 weeks.
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They require good discipline and cooperation from the child, because only the correct and sufficient wearing regime recommended by an orthodontist can provide the desired result. «You should not carry the device in your pocket, but in your mouth!»
In pediatric orthodontics, plates are more challenging than elastopositioners (trainers), and the visible effect of treatment comes sooner. But they all have one important thing in common: these appliances are effective only in children during the period of active growth.
While the body is growing, a lot can be done for future health, the main thing is to know when, to what extent and in what sequence. Therefore, you should not give up on treatment with removable plates and wait until you are older for treatment with a bracket system.
Make an appointment for a consultation with a pediatric orthodontist