Early interceptive treatment refers to orthodontics for children that still have most of their primary (baby) teeth. While most children begin orthodontic treatment during their adolescent years (10-14), some children can benefit from earlier intervention. Interceptive orthodontics can guide growth and development to improve your child’s current oral health and reduce the need for future treatment.
How do you know if your child needs early interceptive treatment? How long will treatment take? Is early orthodontic treatment worth it? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this guide to orthodontics for parents.
What is Early Interceptive Treatment?
When orthodontic issues are present at an early age, addressing those issues early can prepare the way for future treatment, making it less complex and often shorter. Interceptive orthodontics may include the following:
- Palatal expanders. These appliances gradually widen the upper jaw to make more room for the permanent teeth.
- Habit appliances. Children with thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits may need an appliance to break the habit and prevent negative effects on their teeth and jaw development.
- Airway orthodontics. Early interceptive treatment may include treatments to improve breathing and incorrect swallowing that can affect the development of the jaw.
Signs Your Child May Need Early Interceptive Treatment
- Severe bite misalignment, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Crowded teeth
- Abnormal speech development
- Difficulty chewing effectively
- Sucking their thumb or fingers
- Breathing through the mouth rather than the nose
- Early tooth shedding
Benefits of Early Treatment
- Improved oral health. Children with early orthodontic issues can experience improved oral health with interceptive treatment.
- Reduction in future orthodontic issues. Early treatment can prevent more severe orthodontic issues from developing as the child grows.
- Shorter treatment times in the future. Children who have had early interceptive treatment will often still need treatment during their adolescent years, though it will most likely be shorter and less complex.
- Increased confidence. Early treatment can enhance a child’s appearance and reduce speech issues, which can boost confidence.
The Early Treatment Process
If you think your child may need early orthodontic treatment, or if your child’s dentist recommends it, the first step is to schedule an evaluation. During the initial orthodontic evaluation a variety of assessments will be done, including taking X-ray images, to evaluate the position of the teeth and the development of the jaw.
With this information your orthodontist will make a recommendation for treatment. In some cases treatment is recommended to begin immediately, and in other cases treatment may be put off until the child is older.
Best Age for an Orthodontic Evaluation
If your child is at least 7 years old, it is time to schedule an orthodontic evaluation. Even if treatment is not recommended at this age, your child can return for yearly monitoring until the time is right. To schedule an evaluation with Advanced Orthodontics, call 734-397-6999 or contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Interceptive Treatment
How long does early interceptive treatment take?
Treatment times vary based on patient need and the type of treatment required. On average, interceptive treatment will take anywhere from 6 months to a year or more.
Is early orthodontic treatment worth it?
The benefits of early orthodontic treatment are numerous. Not only will early treatment benefit your child’s oral and overall health today, it will guide growth and development in a positive way that fosters a lifetime of health and wellness.
Advanced Orthodontics provides a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages in Canton, MI and the surrounding communities. If your child has never had an orthodontic evaluation, or if it's been over a year since their last evaluation, contact us to schedule your visit today. Start your child’s smile transformation with the help of our board certified orthodontist and expert team.