Early Interceptive Orthodontics
When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this stage, enough permanent teeth have emerged for an orthodontist to assess potential alignment or jaw issues. While some concerns may be visible, others require a trained eye and diagnostic tools like X-rays to detect hidden problems such as missing, extra, or impacted teeth.
Why Early Orthodontic Care Matters
Early evaluations allow orthodontists to identify and address potential concerns before they become more complex. Timely intervention can prevent the need for more invasive and costly treatments in the future. Common early treatment options include:
Palatal Expander
Used in growing children to widen the upper jaw, reducing crowding and preventing impacted teeth. Addressing this early may eliminate the need for surgery later.
Early Braces
A short phase of braces can correct bite issues like underbites, improving function and preventing long-term complications.
Tooth Removal
Extracting baby or impacted teeth can guide permanent teeth into proper alignment, sometimes without the need for additional appliances.
What If Treatment Isn’t Needed Yet?
Your child’s first visit will result in one of three outcomes:
- No treatment needed at this time.
- Monitoring is recommended as their teeth and jaws develop.
- Early treatment is beneficial, and Dr. Yidi will discuss the next steps.
Even if no immediate treatment is required, early evaluations allow for growth tracking and timely intervention, ensuring a healthier smile in the future.
We make the journey fun and comfortable with WildSmile braces, Invisalign First, the Invisalign Palatal Expander, and other appliances tailored for growing smiles.
WildSmile Braces
WildSmile Braces make orthodontic treatment exciting with fun, custom-shaped brackets like Mickey Mouse, stars, footballs, and hearts! Perfect for early treatment, they let kids express themselves while achieving a healthy smile. These unique shapes encourage better brushing, boost confidence, and turn braces into a fun, personalized experience.
Invisalign First
Designed for children aged 6 to 10, Invisalign First helps guide jaw growth and creates space for incoming teeth, addressing crowding, spacing, and narrow arches early on. These clear, removable aligners are comfortable, easy to clean, and discreet. Plus, we provide water-resistant, biocompatible stickers that kids can use to decorate their aligners, adding a fun personal touch to their treatment!
Invisalign Palatal Expander (IPE)
The Invisalign Palatal Expander is a custom-fit, 3D-printed device designed to widen the upper arch in growing children. It offers a comfortable, effective alternative to traditional expanders and is the only FDA-cleared, removable option that provides the same results. When combined with Invisalign First clear aligners, it helps create space for adult teeth and addresses dental issues early, offering a discreet, safe, and efficient solution for children aged 6 to 11.
Other Fixed Appliances
Fixed appliances in Phase I orthodontics help set the stage for a healthy smile! Expanders widen the upper jaw, creating space and improving bite. Space maintainers hold space for adult teeth if a baby tooth is lost early. Habit appliances help break thumb-sucking and other habits that can affect dental development. These tools work quietly behind the scenes to guide proper growth and ensure a bright, confident smile ahead!
Ready For Your
Dream Smile?
