Early Treatment

Interceptive orthodontics goes beyond just improving appearance; it focuses on leveraging the growth phases in childhood, when the jaw and facial structure are most adaptable.

The traditional view of braces as a teenage necessity is evolving. Interceptive treatment, commonly known as early orthodontic treatment, is a forward-thinking approach designed to tackle dental irregularities in children before they lead to more serious concerns. This type of treatment typically starts when children are between 6 to 10 years old, taking advantage of the critical development stage of their jaw.

By addressing issues such as crowded teeth, crossbites, and jaw misalignments at an early age, we can help prevent more complex and costly treatments down the road.

Laying the Groundwork for Future Smiles

Early orthodontic treatment can significantly shape the development of teeth and jaws, potentially minimizing the need for more invasive procedures later on.

Some key objectives of interceptive treatment include:

Correcting Malocclusions

Interceptive treatment targets malocclusions—misalignments of the teeth and jaws—such as crowding, spacing issues, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Directing Jaw Growth

Using interceptive strategies to steer jaw growth can help establish a harmonious facial profile and ensure proper occlusion.

Creating Needed Space

This approach may involve creating room within the dental arch for erupting permanent teeth, effectively preventing crowding and alignment complications.

Addressing HarmfulHabits

Early intervention can tackle detrimental oral habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which may adversely affect dental development.

Preserving Oral Health

By proactively addressing dental concerns, interceptive treatment can help avert tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health challenges linked to malocclusions.

Early Treatment, Lasting Benefits

Interceptive treatment provides numerous advantages for both children and parents:

Enhanced Oral Health

By tackling dental issues at an early stage, interceptive treatment helps ensure optimal oral health and lowers the risk of complications later in life.

Improved Facial Aesthetics

arly orthodontic intervention can lead to a more balanced facial profile, enhancing aesthetics and boosting a child's self-esteem.

Simplified Future Treatment

Addressing dental concerns early often results in less invasive and shorter orthodontic treatments down the road, minimizing complexity and duration.

Optimised Functional Outcomes

nterceptive treatment fosters a harmonious relationship between the teeth and jaws, improving bite function and chewing efficiency.

Increased Chances of Success

Beginning orthodontic treatment at a younger age allows orthodontists to take advantage of natural growth processes, enhancing the likelihood of achieving successful results.

Orthodontists are constantly aware that there are hidden pitfalls associated with interceptive treatment that may include long treatment times, maintenance of appliances, inability to accurately anticipate the changes associated with dentofacial growth and development, and the necessity to closely monitor treatment progress to avoid irreversible occlusal changes while evaluating treatment response.em>

When Should I start?

The Australian Society of Orthodontists advises that an initial orthodontic assessment should take place at the first indication of any orthodontic issues involving the jaw or teeth. If no concerns are present, this evaluation should occur by the age of 7.

At this early stage, a specialist orthodontist can determine if treatment is necessary and recommend the optimal time to begin any interventions.

With this knowledge, parents can make informed decisions about scheduling their child's treatment as needed.

Keep in mind that early intervention can save time and money, while also setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and increased confidence.

Treatment Options

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Devices

Jaw Growth
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Seeing a Specialist

By seeking early intervention with Dr. Carolyn, you can detect and address dental concerns before they escalate. She expertly directs the development of the jaw and teeth to promote optimal alignment and bite function.

This proactive approach not only helps prevent issues such as tooth decay and speech difficulties but also simplifies future treatment options.

In the end, Dr. Carolyn’s interceptive care offers customized solutions for children, establishing a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

The information contained on this website is general in nature and does not cover all appliances or treatment modalities. It does not take into account your personal situation. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek advice from a dental professional.