What is interceptive orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics refers to the first phase of orthodontic treatment in young children. Years ago, braces and other orthodontic work was reserved for young adolescents in their pre-teens, but now intervention may occur as early as age six.

Early orthodontic intervention works because your child’s jaw is still developing at this age. This means issues like teeth crowding are easier to treat, and it may also be possible to help permanent teeth grow into the correct position by making space for them before they come in.

As permanent teeth develop, your child may require further phases of orthodontic treatment.

Why would my child need interceptive orthodontics?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends all children get an orthodontic screening by age 7 since this is around the time permanent teeth start to come in.

The Hardie Dentistry for Kids team uses interceptive orthodontics to correct a wide range of oral health problems, such as:

• Misaligned teeth
• Teeth that grow out of position
• Narrow palate
• Crowded teeth
• Uneven jaw alignment
• Protruding front teeth
• Crossbites

What are the benefits of interceptive orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics offers several benefits to your child’s oral health, including:

• Making room for permanent teeth to come in
• Reducing the need for tooth extractions
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Expanding the palate for molars to grow into the proper position
• Creating facial symmetry
• Reducing overall orthodontic treatment time

What happens during my child’s interceptive orthodontic treatment?

Dr. Hardie and his expert dental team have extensive experience working with children. They create a warm, welcoming environment that allows your child to relax during treatment.

With a focus on gentle care and establishing a good relationship with your child, they begin with a comprehensive dental exam to determine whether interceptive orthodontics is necessary. They may take X-rays to further evaluate the condition of your child’s teeth.

The team doesn’t perform any dental work at the first appointment unless there’s a dental emergency.

If your child needs interceptive orthodontics, the team discusses the best treatment options, which may include:

• A space maintainer that keeps space open for permanent teeth to grow in
• Expansion of the jaw to correct a crossbite or create space for crowded teeth
• Removal of specific baby teeth to make room for permanent ones

If your child is due for an orthodontic assessment, call Hardie Dentistry for Kids or book an appointment online today.