Options ~ Early Treatment Appliances
Why do the American and Canadian Associations of Orthodontists recommend orthodontic screening for all children by age 7? Many orthodontic problems are growth related and have to do with the position, shape and size of the jaws (jaw relationship). While a child is still growing, appliances can be comfortably and effectively used to correct jaw relationship as well as make room for all future adult teeth. In all cases, early treatment will prevent the need for multiple extractions (removal) of baby and permanent teeth.
Why do many Orthodontists recommend extraction?
Extractions are often requested due to lack of jaw width or lack of space for all permanent teeth to fit within the jaw. Early treatment corrects these two problems by making growth related changes and creating room for all teeth.
Do we want to wait?
Let’s not minimize the social consequences of extreme orthodontic conditions for a young child. The primary grades are a time when self-confidence and self-esteem are being developed and when teasing and bullying can undermine the emotional well-being of a child. Comfortable, removable appliances will correct the malocclusion and develop huge smile confidence.
Does early treatment negate the need for a second phase of treatment with braces later?
While early treatment addresses the fit of the bite it does not take away the need for braces later if you want to maximize the possible aesthetic possibilities. After early treatment, the bite will be healthy, no teeth will need to be removed and the teeth will look great. However we cannot control the absolute position of the teeth that are yet to grow in.
Who does a second phase of treatment and why?
While an orthodontist will almost always suggest a second phase of treatment (for aesthetics), approximately 75% of our early treatment patients are very happy with the look of the teeth and choose to not finish with any further treatment. Should a patient choose to finish with braces or Invisalign we blend phase two fees with your first phase. Cost of phase two treatment (braces or Invisalign) is discounted and time in treatment is shorter as many of our treatment goals have already been achieved in the first phase.
What if we only want to do one phase of treatment for my child?
Should I consider early treatment or wait for braces (or Invisalign). This is a commonly asked question and partly why we offer complimentary consultations. The best person to address and explain your child’s best options is an orthodontist. Often there is no need for early intervention. When functional problems are present, they are more easily and effectively treated early when your child is still growing. Early treatment ensures that the bite is healthy and that there is room in the mouth for all future teeth (thus avoiding extraction of teeth). Cost of early treatment is approximately half of the cost of braces. Families often view early treatment as an economical, effective option that sets up the bite for life.
