ORTHODONTICS
EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
Some orthodontic problems should be corrected whilst the baby teeth are still present. Interceptive orthodontics is the guidance of teeth eruption and correction of malocclusion (crowded/crooked teeth or bite problems). Early intervention is essential to improve your child’s dental health. Different orthodontic appliances can be introduced early to guide teeth as they emerge into the mouth.
Different appliances work in different ways. Some are fixed and some are removable. What appliance your child has will depend on the type of malocclusion your child is experiencing.
WHY DO WE AIM FOR STRAIGHT TEETH?
Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and less susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Early orthodontic treatment can prevent more extensive treatment being necessary later on. Interceptive orthodontic devices can straighten crooked teeth, guide erupting teeth into position, and correct bite problems.
SIGNS THAT YOUR CHILD MAY REQUIRE EARLY INTERVENTION ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
-
Breathing difficulties
-
Poor posture
-
Mouth breathing
-
Heavy breathing or snoring while asleep
-
Crooked or crowded teeth
-
Clicking jaw
-
Difficulty chewing or eating
-
Teeth grinding
-
Speech issues
As a parent, you want what’s best for your children. And for them to have great teeth later in life, early intervention is key. Not all children with crooked or overcrowded teeth have a problem with their jaw or facial structure. But it’s always best to make an appointment to determine whether your child’s teeth are on the right track. As they say, it’s better safe than sorry.
SPACE MAINTAINERS
If your child loses a baby tooth prematurely, the teeth beside it may begin to drift into the empty space. And teeth on the upper or lower jaw may move up or down to fill the gap. When this happens, the teeth create a lack of space in the jaw for the permanent teeth, meaning, when they come, the permanent teeth grow crooked. If left untreated, this may make extensive orthodontic treatment necessary in the future.
Space maintainers help maintain the space previously occupied by the missing tooth. They avoid further space loss until your child reaches the appropriate age. At this point, the spacer will be removed to allow the permanent teeth to erupt properly into the mouth.
Remember, some baby teeth are not replaced until a child is 12 or 14 years old.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES:
-
Avoid sticky sweets or chewing gum
-
Don't tug or push the appliance with your fingers or tongue
-
Keep the appliance clean with conscientious brushing and flossing
-
Continue to have regular dental visits
-
Promptly contact our office when an appliance breaks to keep your treatment on track
