Early orthodontics, often referred to as interceptive orthodontics, is a proactive approach that addresses dental issues during a child’s growth phase. By intervening at a younger age, we can guide jaw development, make room for incoming permanent teeth and reduce the need for more invasive treatments later.
What Can Early Orthodontics Address?
Children can benefit from early orthodontic intervention in a variety of ways:
- Crowding: Making space for emerging teeth, avoiding extractions or impacted teeth in the future.
- Bite Issues: Rectifying overbites, underbites and crossbites at an age when the jaw is still developing.
- Habits: Addressing thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits that can alter teeth positioning.
- Jaw Development: Guiding the growth of the jaw to ensure it develops properly.
The Early Orthodontics Experience at Bloomfield Dental
Our dedicated orthodontist and team focuses on your child’s comfort. We begin with a comprehensive evaluation, discuss potential treatment paths and ensure you are informed every step of the way. Using the latest techniques and equipment, our goal is to create a positive foundation for your child’s oral health future.
Advantages of Early Intervention
- Timely Correction: Address issues before they become more complex, potentially shortening treatment time later on.
- Cost-Effective: By dealing with problems early on, you might save on more extensive treatments in the future.
- Confidence Boost: Children can grow up with a well-aligned, beautiful smile, boosting their self-esteem.
FAQ
What is early orthodontics?
Early orthodontics, also known as interceptive orthodontics, involves evaluating and treating dental and jaw issues in young children, typically between the ages of 6 and 10. This proactive approach aims to address and correct problems before they become more severe. Early orthodontic treatment can guide the growth and development of a child’s teeth and jaw, potentially reducing the need for more extensive treatment in the future.
How does early orthodontics benefit my child?
Early orthodontics offers numerous benefits for your child. It can correct dental issues before they worsen, reducing the need for complex treatments later on. Early intervention can also guide jaw growth, improve the alignment of permanent teeth and create space for crowded teeth. Additionally, it can help address habits such as thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting, which can affect dental development. Overall, early orthodontics can lead to better oral health and a more confident smile for your child.
What types of early orthodontic treatment are available for children?
Several types of early orthodontic treatments are available for children, including space maintainers, palatal expanders and partial braces. Space maintainers are used to hold space for permanent teeth when baby teeth are lost prematurely. Palatal expanders help widen the upper jaw to create more space for teeth. Partial braces or limited orthodontic treatment can correct specific issues, such as crossbites or protruding front teeth. These treatments are designed to address and manage dental problems early on.
When should children have their initial orthodontic evaluation?
Children should have their initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists®. By this age, enough permanent teeth have typically erupted, and our orthodontist can identify potential issues with the child’s bite and jaw growth. Early evaluation allows for timely intervention, which can lead to more effective and less invasive treatment. This proactive approach helps ensure your child’s dental development is on the right track.
Begin Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey
If you believe your child might benefit from early orthodontic intervention in Cerritos, California, contact Bloomfield Dental at 562-926-6502. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hany Youssef and let our team lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles.