Optimal age: 7–12

Guiding Jaw Development with Dentofacial Orthodontics

Early orthodontic care during the development phase can shape healthy, functional smiles by directing jaw growth.

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Dentofacial Orthodontics in Portugal

Guiding Growth for Healthy & Balanced Smiles

The development phase is a crucial window for addressing jaw and dental misalignments. Between the ages of 7 and 12, a child’s jaw is still forming, making it the ideal time to guide growth, correct malocclusions, and prevent severe misalignments and complications in the future. By addressing conditions like Class II or III malocclusions, open bites, and narrow maxilla early, we can set the foundation for a lifetime of oral health and confidence.
Before and after photos. Treat malocclusion class II and class III in an early stage with Dentofacial orthodontics. Consult German-speaking Dr. Heinz in Portugal
    Symbol: Kiefer und Zähne. Dr. Heinz – Kieferorthopädie in Portugal, Kieferentwicklung im Alter von 7 bis 12 Jahren.

    Address malocclusion early

    Class II Malocclusion: Overbites and Early Solutions

    Malocclusion Class II, overbite. German-speaking Orthodontist Dr. Siebelist, expert in Malocclusion Class II & Class III.

    Class II malocclusions, where the upper jaw (maxilla) sits too far forward or the lower jaw (mandible) too far back, can disrupt oral function and appearance, often resulting in an overbite. Intervening during the development phase allows us to use functional appliances like the Bionator, Frankel functional regulator or Twin Block to guide jaw alignment naturally. Early action reduces the risk of complications later in life.

    Read About Class II
    Symbol: Kiefer und Zähne. Dr. Heinz – Kieferorthopädie in Portugal, Kieferentwicklung im Alter von 7 bis 12 Jahren.

    Address malocclusion early

    Class III Malocclusion: Underbites and Corrections

    Malocclusion Class III profile, underbite. German-speaking Orthodontist Dr. Siebelist, expert in Malocclusion Class II & Class III.

    Class III malocclusions cause the lower jaw (mandible) to protrude, creating a reverse bite, where the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth, often resulting in an underbite. Early treatment with devices such as maxillary expanders, rapid palatal expander / Hyrax or face masks can correct these issues before jaw growth stabilizes, ensuring both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Addressing Class III malocclusion early prevents more invasive treatments later.

    Read About Class III
    Symbol: Kiefer und Zähne. Dr. Heinz – Kieferorthopädie in Portugal, Kieferentwicklung im Alter von 7 bis 12 Jahren.

    Guide jaw growth - prevent complications

    Narrow Maxilla and Lateral Crossbite

    A narrow maxilla, often leading to crowded teeth improper facial symmetry, and even breathing difficulties. German-speaking Orthodontist Dr. Heinz can help you in Algarve and Lisbon region.

    A narrow upper jaw often leads to crowded teeth, crossbites, improper facial symmetry, and even breathing difficulties. Expanding the maxilla during the development phase can improve bite alignment, enhance nasal airflow, and prevent associated problems like poor sleep quality and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment options include expanders like MARPE for adults or Hyrax for children.

    Read About MARPE & Hyrax
    Symbol: Kiefer und Zähne. Dr. Heinz – Kieferorthopädie in Portugal, Kieferentwicklung im Alter von 7 bis 12 Jahren.

    Guide jaw growth - prevent complications

    Open Bite

    Open bite. Treatment and correction of an open bite. Dentofacial Orthodontics by Orthodontist Dr. Heinz in Portugal.

    An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap. Open bites, often linked to habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting can disrupt jaw growth and alignment. If untreated, they may affect speech, chewing, and even breathing patterns. Children with an open bite often breathe through their mouth, which disrupts tongue posture and narrows the airway over time. Early intervention focuses on correcting habits and guiding jaw growth using braces, expanders, or habit-breaking appliances.

    Read About Misaligned Bites 

Preventive Dentofacial Orthodontics for long-term health

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early detection and treatment during the development phase can minimize the need for complex orthodontic procedures later. Issues such as malocclusion, narrow maxilla, or crossbites are best treated during childhood when jaw growth can be guided naturally. With early care, we can ensure your child’s smile is healthy, functional, and balanced.

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Dr. Heinz during a consultation with a young patient. Preventative Dentofacial Orthodontics to guide jaw development with Dr. Heinz-Oliver Siebelist. Optimal age 7-12 years while the jaws have not yet finished growing. Consult in German, English, Portuguese or Spanish. Algarve & Lisbon region, Portugal.

Early Treatment for Healthy Smiles

Set Your Child’s Smile on the Right Path

Dentofacial orthodontics in the development phase can do more than align teeth—it can guide proper jaw growth, improve breathing, sleep quality and enhance overall health. With clinics in Algarve and Lisbon, we offer personalized consultations in German, English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Schedule a consultation today to discuss personalized treatment options that will ensure your child's smile and airway develop harmoniously.

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