Blog

When we think about orthodontics, it's often the image of teenagers with braces that springs to mind. But at Seapoint Clinic, our specialist orthodontist, Dr Jim Griffin, understands that orthodontic treatment spans far beyond the teen years, touching the lives of children and young adults alike.

With over two decades of international experience, including advanced training at Oregon Health Sciences University, Dr. Griffin leads our orthodontic team in creating not only straight teeth but also well-aligned jaws and healthy smiles that boost confidence and improve oral health.

Starting orthodontic treatment at the right age is crucial. For children, early intervention can guide jaw growth, correct harmful oral habits, and make room for permanent teeth to come in properly. As one of Ireland's top orthodontists, Dr Griffin's expertise in both traditional braces and modern Invisalign treatment ensures that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs.

At Seapoint Clinic, we combine cutting-edge technology with Dr Griffin's specialist knowledge and training to make informed decisions that benefit our patients' dental health for a lifetime. Whether you're considering treatment for your child or teen, you'll find the expertise and support you need at our state-of-the-art facilities in Blackrock and Sandyford.

Orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in ensuring lifelong dental health and well-being. Starting early with orthodontics can profoundly impact the dental development and aesthetic results for children, teens, and young people.

Initiating orthodontic treatment at a young age benefits children by addressing potential alignment issues before they become more complicated.

The optimal time for an initial orthodontic evaluation is no later than age 7, as recommended by the British Orthodontic Society. At this stage, orthodontists can detect irregularities with jaw growth and emerging teeth.

Early intervention may include corrective appliances that guide the jaw’s growth, help create space for permanent teeth, and address harmful habits such as thumb-sucking.

These proactive measures often reduce the need for more extensive orthodontic treatments later, such as tooth extractions or surgery.

At Seapoint Clinic, Dr Griffin has years of expertise in early intervention, identifying and correcting potential problems before they develop. Using advanced diagnostic tools and space maintainers, he ensures proper development of the dental arch and optimal spacing for emerging adult teeth.

Dr Griffin offers both traditional braces and Invisalign for teenage patients, drawing on his American Association of Orthodontists expertise to create personalised treatment plans. These options not only align teeth perfectly but also improve bite function and make maintaining good oral hygiene easier.

Orthodontic issues vary widely among children and teens, requiring tailored solutions to ensure optimal dental health. Here, we explore common problems and the effective treatments available.

Misaligned teeth and malocclusions represent significant orthodontic challenges. These conditions, where teeth do not align correctly when the jaws close, include overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Treatment typically begins with a thorough assessment using X-rays and digital scans. Braces remain the primary solution for correcting these issues, applying continuous pressure to slowly move teeth into the desired position. In more complex cases, additional appliances like palatal expanders might be necessary to widen the jaw to accommodate proper tooth alignment.

Spacing issues, such as gaps between teeth and crowded teeth, where there isn't enough room in the jaw to accommodate all teeth properly, are common among young patients.

Orthodontists often recommend braces to correct crowded teeth, which not only align the teeth but also create sufficient space in the mouth. For mild spacing issues, dental aligners or retainers might be sufficient to adjust tooth placement subtly and effectively.

In scenarios where extractions are necessary, they provide the needed space, followed by braces to align the remaining teeth perfectly.

Selecting the optimal orthodontic treatment is critical, influencing not only aesthetics but also functionality and dental health. At Seapoint Clinic, Dr Griffin and our expert team will guide you through all available options, helping you understand which treatment best suits your loved ones’ needs, lifestyle, and dental concerns.

Traditional metal braces are highly effective for complex dental issues, such as severe misalignment or significant bite problems.

These braces are metal brackets that attach to each tooth and are linked by wires to shift teeth into the desired position gradually.

They offer orthodontists precise control over the movement of the teeth, ensuring detailed adjustments and effective results in alignment.

Clear aligners like Invisalign®, on the other hand, are best suited for teens and young adults seeking a less visible orthodontic solution.

These custom-made, transparent plastic trays fit snugly over the teeth and gently move them over time.

Clear aligners are removable, which makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene, and they're generally more comfortable than traditional braces. However, they require strict adherence to wearing schedules to be effective.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies significantly depending on the complexity of the dental issues and the type of treatment chosen.

Traditional braces typically require anywhere from 18 months to 3 years to effectively correct dental problems. Clear aligners might need a similar timeframe, though simpler cases can sometimes be resolved faster.

Costs also vary widely and depend on several factors, such as the type of treatment, duration, and the specific needs of the patient.

Traditional braces are generally more cost-effective but can be more expensive in cases that require extensive adjustment. Clear aligners are often pricier due to their aesthetic appeal and advanced technology.

When choosing between traditional braces and clear aligners, Dr. Griffin and the Seapoint team will help you make an informed decision based on your child or teen’s specific dental needs, lifestyle, and budget.

During your consultation, Dr Griffin draws on his extensive international training to explain the benefits and considerations of each option, ensuring you select the treatment that will deliver optimal results for your smile.

Proper care of orthodontic appliances is crucial in ensuring their effectiveness and longevity. Maintaining these devices can significantly impact the success of the treatment and the comfort of the wearer.

We recommend brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least three times a day, focusing on each tooth's surface around the brackets and wires. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Interdental brushes or floss threaders help remove food particles and plaque from under wires and around brackets.

Clean aligners daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap or specialised aligner cleaner - avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. Brush aligners gently with a soft toothbrush to remove debris. Always remove aligners while eating and drinking anything except water. Brush and floss teeth before reinserting aligners to prevent staining and decay.

Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce infection risk and maintain healthy gums. Avoid damaging foods like hard candies, popcorn, nuts, sticky foods and chewing gum. Regular orthodontist visits every 6-8 weeks ensure proper function and allow timely intervention if needed.

Orthodontic emergencies can include lost aligners, broken brackets, snapped wires, or severe discomfort. In these cases, it’s vital to contact your orthodontist immediately for advice or an emergency appointment.

To temporarily alleviate discomfort, patients can use orthodontic wax to cover any protruding parts or apply a saltwater rinse to ease irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain, provided they are used as directed.

Dealing with discomfort during orthodontic treatment often involves adjusting everyday habits. Encouraging soft foods, such as yoghurt, soup, and smoothies, can lessen the strain on the teeth and appliances immediately after adjustments. Ice packs applied to the face can help reduce inflammation and numb sore areas, providing relief.

By following these guidelines, patients ensure their treatment progresses as smoothly and comfortably as possible. Additionally, immediate attention to emergencies reduces the risk of extending the treatment duration or facing complications.

Under Dr Jim Griffin's expert guidance, Seapoint Clinic provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment that ensures the dental health and well-being of children and teens.

With his extensive training from Oregon Health Sciences University and active membership in leading orthodontic associations, Dr. Griffin can identify and correct alignment issues early, preventing more complex problems from developing.

At Seapoint, orthodontic care goes beyond aesthetics—it's an investment in lifelong dental health that builds confidence and ensures optimal oral function.

Take the first step towards your child's perfect smile with Dr Griffin and the orthodontic team at Seapoint Clinic. Book a consultation to discuss a tailored treatment plan to deliver the best possible results for your child's future.