Early Interceptive Orthodontics | Phase 1 In San Marino
Starting orthodontic care for your young child may seem drastic. But by beginning proactive care early, we can help minimize or even eliminate their need for more extensive treatments in the future. Give your child a lifetime of healthy smiles.
- MON
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- TUE
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- WED
- 9 AM - 4 PM
- THUR
- 8 AM - 5 PM
- FRI
- 8 AM - 5 PM
Why Should I Choose Early Interceptive Orthodontics?
Because the sooner you get treatment for your child, the better the alignment of their teeth and jaws will be. Orthodontic problems often become obvious as early as the age of 6-8 in some kids. By using special early orthodontic treatments, orthodontists can correct lots of these problems while your child’s jaws are still growing, and before all of their permanent teeth erupt. This is known as “Phase 1” orthodontic treatment. Getting phase 1 treatment can simplify your child’s future treatment with braces, and can even eliminate the need for further orthodontic procedures, in some cases.
Did you know…
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that kids get their first orthodontic consultation no later than the age of 7 years old.
No More Messy Impressions
With our intraoral scanner, we’re able to create accurate 3D models of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw structure, all without the need for messy impressions. These images allow us to create the most efficient treatment plans, and even see what your child’s smile will look like after their treatment has finished.
Complimentary Consultations
If you're curious if phase 1 orthodontics can help set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles, schedule a complimentary consultation at San Marino Orthodontics!
Exam
Digital Imaging
Treatment Plan
Expanders
When left unaddressed, a small maxilla (or the bones that form the upper jaw and roof of the mouth) can cause asymmetric jaw growth, airway problems, and a shortened arch. these problems could require extractions or even jaw surgery to correct. Orthodontic expanders, when applied at a young age, can minimize the need for future orthodontic treatment, and set your child up for a healthy, straight smile for life.
Early Interceptive Orthodontics | Phase 1
Board-Certified Orthodontist
When you bring your child to a board-certified orthodontist, you’re getting the peace of mind knowing that your little one’s smile is in the hands of an experienced professional who is dedicated to keeping up with the latest advancements in orthodontics and patient care.
Early Interceptive Orthodontics | Phase 1
Oral Appliances
Habits like thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting can be difficult for children to break. We offer special oral appliances that help put a stop to these harmful habits, so your child has the opportunity for proper oral development.
The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics
Develop A Healthy Bite
Phase 1 orthodontics is particularly important in patients who may have serious jaw problems or a narrow palate. These issues can interfere with the development of a healthy bite. In the future, this could lead to problems when the permanent teeth erupt, speech impediments, premature tooth wear, and lots of other problems. With early interceptive orthodontics, these complex issues can be reduced or eliminated.
Reduce Tooth Misalignment
Early interceptive orthodontics helps the adult teeth erupt in the proper places, and can reduce or even eliminate the misalignment of adult teeth. This improves your child’s smile and oral health. In some cases, they may not even need braces (phase 2 orthodontics) to straighten their teeth.
Treat Other Dental/Health Complications
A bad bite and misaligned teeth can contribute to or cause lots of other problems like disordered breathing, a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay, speech issues, and much more. Proper care from an expert orthodontist will prevent all of these problems and more.
The Early Interceptive Orthodontics Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
Initial Consultation
First, your child will need to have an appointment with an experienced orthodontist. Your child’s orthodontist will take detailed x-rays, perform a comprehensive exam, and assess their overall oral health to determine if your child needs phase 1 orthodontics.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Personalized Treatment Plan
Once your child is approved for treatment, their orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan. This could include special braces, habit appliances to help with things like thumb-sucking or bad swallow, palate expanders, headgear, and a variety of other treatments. Every child is different, so your orthodontist will discuss their plan with you and schedule all of the necessary follow-ups and checkups.
Regular Orthodontic Check-Ups
Regular Orthodontic Check-Ups
Phase 1 orthodontics typically takes about 12 months, though some patients may have shorter or longer treatment times. During this time, your child will come back to our office for frequent visits with their orthodontist. Their orthodontist will check on their oral health, examine their progress, and make sure everything’s on track. This same process will continue until your child’s treatment is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
