Early Interceptive Treatment (Ages 7+)
What Is Early Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment?
Our Phase I (early interceptive) treatments focus on specific orthodontic concerns and often require a second phase of treatment a couple of years later after all the adult teeth are in.
We follow the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommendation that all children have an orthodontic evaluation around age 7. While the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment for most children is between the ages of 10 and 12 (when they lose their last baby teeth), there are other situations where a child will benefit from early interceptive treatment. Early treatment is orthodontic treatment before the arrival of all the permanent teeth for less than a year and is generally followed by a second phase of orthodontic treatment after the arrival of all of the permanent teeth.
The treatments we use are:
- Palatal expanders
Used to widen the upper jaw to correct crossbites and asymmetric growth of the lower jaw as well as create more space for the adult teeth to come in - Facemasks
Used to help the upper jaw grow forward when we have a developing underbite - Partial braces
Used to help align the front teeth for improved function and aesthetics
Early treatment is often indicated as a preventive measure if the orthodontic problems are expected to get worse over time or with other concerns, such as airway. Early treatment can also improve the future space requirements for permanent teeth minimizing the need for permanent tooth removal.
At your child’s initial consultation, we will let you know if there are any advantages to early treatment or if it’s better to wait.
What Happens After Early Interceptive Treatment?
After we finish Phase I treatment your child will be provided with a nighttime retainer and we will continue to monitor their dental growth and development. Once their remaining adult teeth have erupted we will evaluate if a second phase of treatment is recommended.
