Starting orthodontic care for your young child may seem drastic. But by beginning proactive care early, we can help minimize or even eliminate their need for more extensive treatments in the future. Give your child a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics
Develop A Healthy Bite
Phase 1 orthodontics is particularly important in patients who may have jaw problems; this includes a narrow palate. These issues can interfere with the development of a healthy bite and airway leading to problems when the permanent teeth erupt, speech impediments, premature tooth wear, and other issues. With early interceptive orthodontics, these complex issues can be reduced or eliminated.
Reduce Tooth Misalignment
The benefits of early alignment of teeth can be two fold: improving alignment and confidence. Early interceptive orthodontics can create space and helps guide adult teeth to erupt into proper position. This can go a long way in improving your child’s confidence and smile through their developing years.
Treat Other Dental/Health Complications
A bad bite and misaligned teeth can contribute to or cause lots of other problems like disordered breathing, a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay, speech issues, and much more. Proper care from an expert orthodontist will prevent all of these problems and more.
The Early Interceptive Orthodontics Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
First, your child will need to have an appointment with an experienced orthodontist. Our orthodontists will take detailed x-rays, perform a comprehensive exam, and assess their overall oral health to determine if your child needs Phase 1 Orthodontics.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Once your child is approved for treatment, our orthodontists will develop a customized treatment plan. This could include special braces, habit appliances to help with things like thumb-sucking, palate expanders, and a variety of other treatments. Every child is different, so our orthodontists will discuss their plan with you and schedule all of the necessary follow-ups and checkups.
Regular Orthodontic Check-Ups
Phase 1 orthodontics typically takes about 12 months, though some patients may have shorter or longer treatment times. During this time, your child will come back to our office for visits with our orthodontists. Our orthodontists will check on their oral health, examine their progress, and make sure everything’s on track. This same process will continue until your child’s treatment is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my child may need early interceptive orthodontics?
If your child is showcasing one or more of the following signs & symptoms, they may be a good candidate for early interceptive orthodontic treatment:
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Crowded teeth
- Excessively gapped teeth
- Extra or missing teeth
- Excessive thumb, finger, or pacifier sucking
Our orthodontists are happy to work directly with you and your child to assess these symptoms before they become severe issues over time.
What are the benefits of early interceptive orthodontics?
Early treatment can be in a patient’s best interest if their problem is one that could worsen over time and cause severe dental issues in adulthood if left untreated. The goal of early treatment is to recognize and eliminate these problems as early as possible, so a child’s teeth and jaw can properly grow and maintain space for incoming adult teeth.
What causes orthodontic problems in my child?
While many orthodontic problems are inherited, some are caused by common habits over time, such as thumb sucking, finger sucking, or excessive pacifier use. Other factors such as mouth breathing, dental disease, abnormal swallowing, poor dental hygiene, or early or late loss of baby teeth, accidents, and poor nutrition can alter your child’s teeth and jaw alignment. No matter the cause, our orthodontists will cater to your child’s unique needs and teach them healthy habits for a lifetime of optimal oral health.
At what age should my child be seen by an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s first check-up should take place before the age of 7 or any time an orthodontic issue is noticed before then. By the age of 7, your child’s mouth holds enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to gain a strong understanding of your child’s mouth and jaws as they develop. This provides our orthodontists with plenty of information to give your child a tailored treatment.
How much does early interceptive orthodontics cost?
The cost of early interceptive orthodontics is different for each patient. Factors that may affect the cost include the severity of your child’s teeth misalignment, appointment and visits, insurance type, and more. The best way to find out how much you’ll pay for your child’s early interceptive orthodontics is to schedule a consultation with our orthodontists.