If you’ve been routinely seeing a pediatric dentist for your child, it may come as no surprise that an orthodontic consult is recommended as early as age 7. While this may seem too young – it is actually the perfect timing to intervene on mild to severe alignment & spacing issues.
What is Early Orthodontic Intervention?
Early orthodontic intervention, also known as interceptive orthodontics or Phase I orthodontics, refers to orthodontic treatment that is provided to children between the ages of 7 and 11. The goal of early orthodontic intervention is to address orthodontic issues and guide the growth and development of the teeth and jaws while the child is still growing.
During early orthodontic intervention, orthodontists may use various techniques to correct problems such as crowded teeth, bite issues, and jaw misalignment. This may involve the use of braces, space maintainers, expanders, or other orthodontic appliances.
Early orthodontic intervention is beneficial because it can help to address orthodontic issues before they become more severe and difficult to treat. It can also help to create space for permanent teeth to come in properly and improve the overall alignment of the teeth and jaws.
By addressing orthodontic issues early, children may require less extensive orthodontic treatment later in life, leading to shorter treatment times and potentially avoiding the need for more invasive procedures, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery, in the future. Overall, early orthodontic intervention can help children achieve healthier, more attractive smiles and improve their long-term dental health and well-being
Types of Braces for Kids
When it comes to straightening teeth and creating beautiful smiles, we understand that every child is unique, which is why we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to their needs.
- Traditional Metal Braces
- SureSmile
- Damon Smiles
- Clear Braces
- Invisalign® First
What to Expect
Our process for braces begins with a thorough consultation to assess your child’s orthodontic needs and discuss treatment options. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation. During the initial consultation, Dr. Teng will perform a comprehensive examination of your child’s teeth, jaws, and bite – this will include getting any necessary X-rays and imaging. We’ll discuss your child’s concerns, treatment goals, and any questions you may have.
- Treatment Planning. Based on the exam, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific orthodontic issues. We’ll explain the recommended treatment options, including traditional metal braces, and discuss the expected duration of treatment.
- Braces Placement. Once the treatment plan is finalized, we’ll schedule an appointment to place the braces.
- Ongoing Monitoring. Throughout your child’s orthodontic treatment, we’ll schedule regular check-up appointments to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the braces. Our team will be available to address any concerns or questions that arise during treatment.
- Braces Removal. Once your child’s teeth have achieved the desired alignment and bite correction, we’ll remove the braces and provide retainers to maintain the results. We’ll also discuss post-treatment care and the importance of wearing retainers as prescribed.
Trusted Pediatric Orthodontist in El Paso
At JT Orthodontics, our goal is to make the braces experience as comfortable and rewarding as possible for your child. With our personalized approach and expert care, we’ll help your child achieve a confident, healthy smile they can be proud of. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about our braces options for children!
