You want your child to have a beautiful smile, but their oral health matters, too. Fortunately, modern orthodontics considers both, and early intervention can even aid in their development and mean less time in braces later. Additionally, early intervention can sometimes mean they’ll not need braces at all.
In this blog, we explore:
- What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
- Why Early Evaluation Matters
- Does Your Child Need Interceptive Orthodontics?
- Phase 1 Treatment: Guiding Growth and Development
- The Long-Term Benefits of Early Intervention
- When to Contact Us for Early Orthodontics in North York
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Phase one orthodontics in North York involves evaluating your child early for potential issues such as a narrow or small jaw, the way teeth are erupting, and monitoring baby teeth to help prevent early loss.
Through early intervention, your dentist can expand the jaw if it is small or narrow to accommodate adult teeth better and prevent crowding and overlapping.
We can also hold space for adult teeth to erupt correctly if baby teeth are lost too soon.
Early treatment focuses on skeletal issues and jaw relationships rather than full braces. It concentrates on a time limit to correct or prevent orthodontic issues later by intervening now.
Examples of phase 1 orthodontics include, but are not limited to:
- Space maintainers
- Palatal expanders
Why Early Evaluation Matters
The "Age 7" Milestone: Why the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) Recommends a First Check-Up by Age Seven, Even If No Problems Are Visible
Some orthodontic issues are not visible. For example, minor bite misalignment and back tooth overcrowding. This is also the age of mixed dentition, a time when baby teeth coexist with adult teeth. This period allows the orthodontist or dentist to assess growth and eruption patterns. At this point, we have a better idea of whether your child will benefit from phase 1 orthodontics.
Does Your Child Need Interceptive Orthodontics?
If the dentist notes the following, your child may benefit from phase 1 orthodontics:
- Bite Irregularities
- Space and Eruption Issues
- Harmful Oral Habits
- Functional Concerns
Thumb sucking and pacifier use after a certain age can increase your child’s risk of needing early intervention. Additionally, if you notice mouth breathing, speech delays, or related issues, it’s essential to consult a dentist.
Phase 1 Treatment: Guiding Growth and Development
Phase 1 treatment guides your child’s oral development, giving them the stepping stones they need to enjoy oral and functional dental health in the future. Remember, early intervention can mean less time in braces later, or no need for braces at all.
The Long-Term Benefits of Early Intervention
The long-term benefits of early intervention include proper nose breathing, jaw joint support, straight tooth eruption, a correct bite, and teeth that are easier to brush and floss effectively. This can mean fewer cavities and oral health issues in adulthood.
When teeth line up correctly, there are fewer places for bacteria and tartar to hide and collect.
When to Contact Us for Early Orthodontics in North York
We’re pleased to offer full-service children’s dentistry and recommend contacting us if you have questions about orthodontics, dental treatment options, or if you would like to schedule a phase 1 orthodontic evaluation for your child. You can reach us at (437) 900-8266 or book online.
