Orthodontics knowledge anyone?

[Puzzledlikeajigsaw]

My son aged 7 (still has top incisors as baby teeth) has an underbite. I saw an orthodontist recently and he suggested treatment to realign the jaw. He would wear a type of mouth guard thingy (I can’t remember what he called it as there was a bit of a language barrier... not in the UK) He would have to wear it overnight whilst he slept plus ideally 3 hours continuously in the day. He would not be allowed to talk during this time. This would be for a yet. I was a little shocked when this was suggested as it seems quite excessive for such a small child but the ortho explained it is good to catch them young otherwise her jaw may noticeably lengthen. I am at a loss at what to do for the best. Google seems to promote a similar treatment but I can’t find anywhere to suggest the same timings (ie all night and 3 hours in the day). Does anyone have any experience or knowledge about this type of problem? Thanks in advance.

Hello, I have worked in orthodontics for 10 years and I have never come across this before or heard of it! I would possibly seek a a second opinion and not worry too much, usually treatment for aligning jaws happens when the jaw is fully grown in my experience x

My son also has an underbite and started treatment at the age of 8. He wore a functional appliance (type of retainer attached to top and bottom) all the time unless eating. Eventually this was not enough and he progressed to wearing headgear at night which has had a huge impact on his underbite. We have had to change orthodontist to get this treatment as the initial one was suggesting surgery on his jaw. It is definitely worth starting treatment early in my experience.

My youngest had an underbite and cross bite. He started with a jaw expander at 8.
Then a long pause until his permanent teeth began to erupt. Then two extractions. More waiting, then classic upper and lower full braces with elastics. Probably should have continued with a night time retainer but he’s well into his 30’s now and no dental concerns.