Early Orthodontic Eval (Call us at 408-719-8600)
Purpose of early orthodontic evaluation:
Timely detection of problems allows for more effective treatments. Effective and early intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later in life.
When should the orthodontic treatment start?
Braces are suitable for patients of all ages, anyone who is interested in improving their smile. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Orthodontic treatment for children may be indicated at different ages depending on individual findings. In some cases, treatment is not started until all permanent teeth are in. In other cases, an earlier interceptive treatment is the most efficient method for correcting and/or minimizing developing problems before all the permanent teeth are in. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can simplify a later treatment.
Phase I or interceptive treatment:
This phase is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, for correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits.
Benefits of interceptive treatment:
- Reducing the need for removing teeth
- Providing space for crowded (or future) teeth
- Improving the effectiveness of braces
Phase II or comprehensive treatment:
Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.
