When it comes to children’s dental well-being, many parents frequently ask, ‘Is orthodontic treatment necessary?’
It’s an upright question. After all, children lose their baby teeth, so why worry so early? However, not all dental problems fix themselves with time.
That’s where interceptive orthodontic treatment approaches come in. Also known as early orthodontic treatment, it concentrates on noticing and improving dental issues in children before they become serious. Early treatment of teeth and jaw growth may still require full braces. It’s similar to fixing little problems before they grow up.
Let’s explore the term interceptive orthodontics, how it works, and why it might be an adequate choice for your child’s smile.
What is Interceptive Orthodontics?
It is a treatment that starts while a child still has some baby teeth. It is also known as early intervention orthodontics or preventive orthodontics.
This method helps catch early signs of dental or jaw issues and treat them before they become more severe. Dissimilar to regular braces that usually come during the teenage years, interceptive care starts earlier, sometimes as young as 6 or 7 years old.
The goal is to show the development of the jaws, create a place for incoming adult teeth, and enhance the alignment of teeth. With this type of care, dental specialists and orthodontists strive to prevent significant problems from arising afterward. This can lead to shorter, simpler, and less costly treatments in the future.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary for Kids?
As we mentioned above, parents frequently ask, “Is orthodontic treatment necessary?” when their children still have baby teeth or just a few enduring ones. The answer depends on the child’s specific dental condition. While not all children need early braces or other therapies, many advantages to pediatric orthodontic care.
Managing an orthodontic evaluation for children around the age of 7 allows orthodontists to recognize issues such as crowding, bite problems, or jaw misalignment. These concerns are unlikely to be determined on their own as the child grows.
In fact, without early intervention, some of these problems could worsen over time. Accordingly, orthodontic therapy is often essential, particularly for correcting jaw growth early or guiding teeth into more appropriate positions.
Here Are the Signs That Show Your Child May Need Early Treatment!
Many indications may show that your child requires orthodontic treatment promptly rather than later. These signs involve:
- They have filled or crooked teeth
- A child faces difficulty while biting or chewing
- They must have teeth that protrude or do not align properly
- A child can have early or late loss of baby teeth
- If a child has periodic mouth breathing
- Thumb reeks beyond the age of 5
- Ticking or popping sounds in the jaw
If you notice any of these indications, it’s essential to plan an orthodontic evaluation for your child. Handling these issues early can greatly impact the effectiveness of the dental treatment.
What Happens During Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment can include many devices and steps, depending on the specific dental problems that need to be handled.
Some children might require interceptive braces, which are smaller and easier than full braces. Some people may use expanders to widen the top jaw or space maintainers to keep the area available for adult teeth.
In certain conditions, orthodontic treatment can help affect the growth of the jaw or handle problems with the bite. Dental experts refer to this process as early jaw growth correction. The goal is to work with the body’s natural development to prevent more serious issues later on.
- The initial phase of dental therapy typically lasts about 6 to 12 months. Later, your kid may move through a break period where their growth is noticed.
- During the second phase, such as full braces, might be required during their teens. Because of the initial function, the second phase is always shorter and easier.
What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Initially, there are numerous advantages to starting orthodontic care.
- One big advantage is that it helps prevent worse issues in the future. When problems like crowding or jaw misalignment are determined initially, your child’s mouth grows in a healthier and more balanced manner.
- Orthodontics for young children also helps increase confidence. Children who are uncomfortable about their smile may feel better after dental therapy.
- Furthermore, addressing issues early lessens the likelihood of teeth breaking that don’t adhere or close properly.
- Another considerable benefit is that it can lessen the need for tooth removal afterward.
- In some cases, initial care can prevent the need for full braces. And if braces are still required, the time spent wearing them is usually shorter.
When Should You Schedule an Evaluation?
Dental specialists suggest that parents plan their child’s first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. While this seems before time, it allows orthodontists to recognize potential problems before they become more severe.
At this age, children normally have a combination of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it simpler to examine the development of their mouth and teeth.
Not all kids will require treatment immediately, but it’s better to know early than to wait. Some children may only need to be noticed over time, while others may start therapy soon after the visit.
What if You Wait Too Long?
Holding back too long to begin therapy could lead to greater issues. For example, if the higher and lower jaws don’t grow at the same speed, it can produce a misaligned bite. This could lead to aching, difficulty chewing, or even speech issues.
Unprocessed orthodontic issues in children can lead to low confidence, particularly if the child feels awkward about their smile. More critically, important issues might necessitate surgery or extended treatment if not detected in time.
Why choose Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontist for Interceptive Orthodontics?
At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing high-quality dental care to families and patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions tailored to each patient’s oral health needs.
At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, our skilled orthodontist takes the time to understand each individual when scheduling appointments and therapy, ensuring they receive the care they require.
With interceptive orthodontics, we may successfully handle dental treatment using advanced techniques and approaches. You can trust us to uphold your oral health and keep your smile.
Final Thoughts!
So, is orthodontic treatment significant for your child?
It depends, but interceptive orthodontics can provide real advantages when started at the exact time. From leading jaw growth to making room for adult teeth, early orthodontic treatment is all about making things smooth down the road.
Whether it’s using interceptive braces or other easy tools, the purpose is to catch and settle issues while your child is still growing. If your child is around age 7 and showing indications of dental or jaw problems, don’t wait. A swift observation could make all the difference. Above all, a shining and healthy smile is something every child deserves.