Early Intervention
Address the Problems Early
Early intervention orthodontics treats issues in children ages 7–10, when baby and permanent teeth are both present. Addressing problems early helps guide jaw and tooth growth, improving alignment and potentially reducing the need for more complex treatment later.
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Benefits of Early Treatment
Enhanced Facial Appearance
Early intervention guides facial growth, enhancing symmetry and aesthetics.
Improved Oral Health
Aligned teeth are easier to clean, lowering the risk of decay and gum disease
Prevention of Future Problems
Early orthodontic care helps prevent severe issues like overcrowding, bite misalignment, and jaw irregularities
Boosted Self-Confidence
A healthy, straight smile can improve a child’s self-esteem and confidence, leading to better social and academic success.
EARLY SIGNS IN YOUR CHILD
When Is It Needed?
While not every child requires early interceptive treatment otherwise known as Phase I treatment, a consultation with Dr. Luke Wu at Agape Orthodontics can help provide an assessment and recommendations
Goals for Phase I
Timing is crucial during this stage, as it’s designed to take advantage of the delicate nature of a child’s growth, allowing for the best possible results with minimal intervention later on.
Correct Crossbites & Open Bites
Early treatment can address bite problems such as cross bites or open bites, which can lead to issues with chewing, speaking, or jaw strain if left untreated for several years.
Create Space for Permanent Teeth
If there is overcrowding or misalignment, Phase 1 can create the necessary space for permanent teeth to come in properly, reducing the need for extractions or more extensive treatment later.
Guide Proper Jaw Growth
Phase 1 treatment helps to influence the development of the jaw, ensuring that it grows in the correct direction, which can prevent more serious bite issues and jaw problems in the future.
Address Early Alignment Problems
Phase 1 allows for the correction of alignment problems like crooked teeth or other irregularities while the child’s teeth and jaw are still developing, minimizing the need for more complex treatments in the future.
Phase II
After Phase I treatment, a break period is often recommended to allow the child’s growth and development to continue naturally before moving into Phase II. This break gives time for the permanent teeth to erupt fully and for the jaw to continue its natural development. During this time, retainers may be used to maintain the progress achieved in Phase 1 and prevent any regression. The break is crucial because it ensures the child’s teeth and jaws are ready for the more comprehensive Phase 2 treatment, which fine-tunes the alignment of the permanent teeth and corrects any remaining issues, establishing long term dental health.
In Phase 2, clear aligners and braces are both effective options for refining teeth alignment. Clear aligners are discreet, removable, and comfortable, ideal for those looking for a more flexible option. Braces, whether metal or ceramic, are fixed and offer precise control for more complex alignment issues, ensuring consistent progress. Both methods help perfect the bite and ensure a lasting, functional smile.
Get a straighter smile with the reliability of metal braces—book a consultation with Dr. Luke Wu today!