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Early Intervention Orthodontics

Orthodontic problems can be prevented and corrected if diagnosed and treated at an early age.

A baby’s jaw initially measures only half the size of an adult’s. By the age of nine, a child’s jaw has progressed to approximately 80% of its projected adult size, reaching 90% by the age of 12. Therefore, early intervention proves advantageous as it allows for the influence on bone growth during a child’s developmental stages. Later on, changes tend to involve more bone remodeling rather than active bone growth.

Ideally, teeth should develop in their designated spaces, harmoniously balanced by the forces exerted by the soft tissue, both outward and inward. Early orthodontic interventions typically commence between the ages of 8 and 10, leveraging the fact that at this stage, a child’s teeth and jaws are more amenable to manipulation.

Early Intervention Orthodontics: A Proactive Approach

Plates for Jaw Expansion

Our clinic employs state-of-the-art plates designed to gently and gradually expand the jaws. This non-invasive technique is particularly effective in children with narrow arches, creating additional space for proper tooth alignment. By expanding the jaws early on, we aim to enhance facial symmetry and reduce the likelihood of future orthodontic complications.

Functional Appliances for Jaw Correction

Functional appliances play a crucial role in guiding jaw growth and correcting bite issues. These appliances work harmoniously with the natural development of a child’s jaw, promoting optimal alignment and reducing the need for more extensive interventions later in life. By addressing these concerns early, we can enhance the overall function and aesthetics of the smile.

Minimising The Need for Adult Tooth Extractions

Strategic Planning

Early Intervention Orthodontics at Bright Image Family Dentistry involves strategic planning to minimise the need for extracting adult teeth during orthodontic treatment. By addressing issues like overcrowding and misalignment in their early stages, we can create a well-balanced and harmonious dental arch.

Preserving Natural Teeth

Our approach is centered around preserving the natural dentition of our patients. Through the use of plates and functional appliances, we aim to guide dental development in a way that reduces the necessity for extracting adult teeth, preserving the integrity of the natural smile.

Advantages of Early Intervention Orthodontics

Improved Facial Harmony

By using plates and functional appliances, our early intervention techniques contribute to improved facial symmetry and harmony. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the smile but also positively influences overall facial appearance.

Enhanced Functionality

Functional appliances play a crucial role in optimising the function of the jaw. By addressing issues early on, we aim to improve chewing efficiency, reduce the risk of jaw joint problems, and create a more comfortable bite.

Shorter Treatment Times

Early intervention orthodontics often leads to shorter overall treatment times. By guiding jaw development and addressing alignment issues in their infancy, we can achieve efficient and effective results, reducing the duration of orthodontic treatment.

Invest in your child’s future smile by choosing Early Intervention Orthodontics at Bright Image Family Dentistry. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care that promotes optimal jaw development and minimises the need for more invasive procedures.

Schedule a consultation today and embark on the path to a lifetime of confident smiles!

Signs your child may need early intervention
  • Early Loss of Baby Teeth
  • Difficulty Chewing or Biting
  • Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use Beyond Age 3
  • Mouth Breathing
  • Speech Difficulties
  • Crowded or Crooked Teeth
  • Protruding Teeth
  • Jaw Irregularities
  • Grinding or Clenching of Teeth
  • Finger or Object Sucking Habits
  • Facial Imbalance
What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialised field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The primary goal of orthodontic treatment is to correct misalignments of the teeth and jaws, improving both function and aesthetics. Orthodontists are dental professionals who specialise in this area, undergoing additional training beyond general dentistry to become experts in orthodontic care.

Key aspects of orthodontics include:

  • Malocclusion Correction
  • Tooth Alignment
  • Jaw Development
  • Orthodontic Appliances
  • Aesthetic Enhancement

Orthodontic treatment may be recommended for individuals of all ages, although it is often initiated during childhood or adolescence when the teeth and jaws are still developing. However, advancements in orthodontic technology have led to a variety of treatment options for adults as well.

Regular orthodontic check-ups and consultations help identify potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and effective treatment planning. Overall, orthodontics plays a crucial role in promoting optimal oral health and achieving well-aligned, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smiles.

How does orthodontics lead to early intervention?

By addressing orthodontic issues early in a child’s development, orthodontics plays a crucial role in promoting optimal oral health and preventing more complex problems that may require extensive treatment in the future. Regular orthodontic check-ups allow for timely intervention, leading to better outcomes for patients.