Early treatment addresses dental and developmental issues that may be corrected with orthodontics between the ages of 7-11 years.This early intervention and phased treatment allows your orthodontist to monitor the growth of the jaw and recommend further orthodontic treatment if it becomes necessary. Early treatment may result in fewer extracted teeth, avoidance of possible surgery, better patient compliance and better final results.
Some of the techniques used in this phase of orthodontics include arch expansion to make room for permanent teeth and orthopedic growth appliances which enhance jaw growth and allow for better facial balance after growth is complete.
The next phase of orthodontics, if needed will take place when most permanent teeth have grown into the mouth). Early treatment may allow the second phase of orthodontics to be of shorter duration and less extensive than it otherwise would have been. This often allows the orthodontist to achieve better treatment outcomes.
Here are a few things to look for that may mean your child needs to see an orthodontist for early treatment:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting food
- Mouth breathing
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
- Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
- Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
- Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face
- Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight
Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment for a complimentary orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment now will give your child a healthy, beautiful smile for the future.
