While braces are often recommended during teenage years, in certain cases patients benefit from early orthodontic intervention. This early form of treatment, called interceptive or Phase I orthodontics, is recommended when a patient has an orthodontic problem developing and early treatment can prevent or minimize the problem in the future.
If you are concerned that your child may need interceptive orthodontics in Lafayette or Opelousas, read on and learn more from the team at Camellia Orthodontics.
WHAT IS INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTICS?
Interceptive, or Phase I, orthodontics is an early form of treatment to correct a specific problem in a child’s dental or skeletal development. This treatment is offered at an earlier age than routine orthodontic treatment – usually between ages 6 to 9 years – since the goal is to “intercept” the problem and prevent it from developing further. At this young age, the dentition and jaws are still developing, which makes it easier to correct certain dental and/or skeletal problems.
Examples of Phase I treatment include:
- Correcting a crossbite with expansion of a narrow upper jaw
- Correcting a single-tooth crossbite to prevent premature wear of teeth
- Reducing protrusion of upper front teeth to prevent tooth fracture during an injury
- Addressing oral habits, such as thumb-sucking, before they lead to more permanent skeletal changes
- Removal of baby teeth in order to guide the eruption of permanent teeth into the proper position
HOW LONG DOES INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT TAKE?
Treatment time depends on the child and the specific orthodontic concern. However, Phase I treatment is usually completed in approximately 12 months. Since Phase I treatment is aimed at correcting a very specific orthodontic problem, patients typically proceed to Phase II treatment later in their teenage years. Phase II treatment involves a more comprehensive approach and addresses any other concerns that were not met in Phase I treatment. In some cases, however, Phase I treatment may prevent the need for future orthodontic treatment.
During your consultation at Camellia Orthodontics, Dr. Bozner will let you know what to expect from your child’s treatment process. We’ll work with you every step of the way to make sure your child gets the care they need for a healthy bite and a beautiful smile.
DOES MY CHILD NEED INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTICS?
If you are concerned that your child may need interceptive orthodontic treatment, we recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation with Dr. Diana Bozner. Signs that early treatment may be needed include an underbite or overbite, teeth that protrude father than others, or baby teeth that are lost too early or too late. While these signs suggest a possible orthodontic concern, Dr. Bozner can evaluate the issue and recommend the proper next steps. Treatment may involve Phase I orthodontics or simply monitoring for the right time to start comprehensive orthodontics!
VISIT CAMELLIA ORTHODONTICS FOR INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
If you’re worried about your child’s oral development, our team is standing by in Lafayette and Opelousas. With a consultation at Camellia Orthodontics, you can make sure your child’s smile is healthy. And if something’s not quite right, we’ll provide the care needed to get your child’s oral development back on track. Contact us online or give us a call at (337) 948-3491 (Opelousas) or (337) 291-9141 (Lafayette) to schedule a consultation today.