Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Benefits of Early Intervention

Timing is everything…especially when it comes to your child’s orthodontic treatment. Early intervention can make a dramatic impact on establishing the proper occlusal foundation. 

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child’s first check-up with an orthodontist be performed when an orthodontic problem is first recognized, but no later than age 7. By age 7 your child has enough permanent teeth for Dr. Theresa L. Skelton to evaluate the developing teeth and the jaws.

Early intervention is one of the most rewarding treatment options that we offer here at TLS Orthodontics. Early intervention allows Dr. Skelton to determine how and when a child's jaw and/or dental problems should be corrected for optimal results. 

While there are many orthodontic problems that orthodontists agree are best treated after all permanent teeth have come in, early intervention can be in your child’s best interests if their problem is one that could become more serious over time if left untreated. The major advantage of early intervention is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic results that will remain stable throughout your child’s life. In some cases, early intervention prevents adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

Early orthodontic treatment can take many forms. Dr. Skelton may prescribe a fixed or removable appliance used to move teeth, change the position of the jaw, or hold teeth in place in order to bring about desirable changes. Regardless of how treatment goals are reached, the bottom line is that some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they are found and treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.

Early Treatment may be recommended if your child has any of the following orthodontic issues:

  • Underbite 
  • Crossbite 
  • Crowded Teeth 
  • Excessively Spaced Teeth 
  • Extra or Missing Teeth 
  • Thumb or Finger Sucking that is Affecting the Teeth or Jaw Growth

Children between the ages of 7and 10 are best suited for early treatment. Treatment usually lasts 4 to 12 months after which the child is monitored and the decision as to the need for a second phase is made.

To give your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile, visit TLS Orthodontics today. No referral needed! Our office provides an initial consultation at no cost and with no obligation.


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