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Traditional orthodontic treatment focuses on moving teeth to fit within the existing jaw structure. Early interceptive orthodontics, however, goes beyond teeth alignment. It aims to optimize oral and airway function by promoting natural growth of the jaws and face, identifying and addressing poor habits early, and treating underlying causes rather than just symptoms.
Why Would My Child Benefit From Early Interceptive Orthodontics?
Approximately 60% of craniofacial development is completed by age 6, and by age 8, about 90% is finished. Intervening during this natural growth phase can reduce treatment time and complexity. Early intervention can address structural and functional concerns, which can:
Minimize the risk of breathing disorders later in life
Improve sleep quality
Encourage natural growth of the face and jaw
Reduce the risk of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)
Decrease the likelihood of needing aggressive surgeries
Did you know…
A Hidden Problem
Research shows an association between sleep disordered breathing and a diagnosis of ADHD in child, which can be helped through proper orthodontic treatment.
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Benefits of Early Orthodontic Expansion
Improved Sleep and Overall Well-Being
Infants and children often sleep more soundly as they can rest their tongues against their palate, breathe through their noses, which can impact sleep quality, learning, behavior, and more.
Prevents Crowding and Misalignment
Early orthodontic expansion can widen the upper jaw, making space for teeth to emerge in their ideal positions, which significantly reduces the extent of crowding later on.
Corrects Bite Issues
Crossbites, overbites, underbites, and other bite misalignments can prevent your child from developing their craniofacial respiratory complex properly.
Healthy Jaw Joints
Having more space for the jaw to "sit" comfortably generally reduces pain and degeneration of the joints.
Treatment Process for Early Orthodontic Expansion
Active Expansion
For early orthodontic expansion, we use a rapid palatal expander (RPE) to gently widen the palate, creating space for teeth and promoting proper jaw development. The process is generally comfortable and non-invasive, though regular check-ups are needed. Treatment typically lasts 6 months to a year, depending on the child's needs.
Retention
Lasting about 6 months, the retention period includes using an appliance to maintain newly formed structures while bones adjust.
Correcting Soft Tissue Structures and Retraining Breathing Patterns
Functional therapy addresses muscle movement and breathing function. In some cases, a functional frenuloplasty may be necessary alongside therapy. Therapy duration varies by patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
What is Airway Centered Orthodontics?
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Airway Centered Orthodontics is an approach that focuses not only on straightening teeth but also on improving the patient's overall airway health. It considers the relationship between orthodontic issues and potential breathing problems.
What are common symptoms of airway issues?
Common symptoms of airway issues include snoring, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent mouth breathing, and sleep disturbances. Addressing these symptoms can contribute to better overall health.
At what age should my child start early orthodontic treatment?
We can provide early orthodontic treatment for qualified patients as young as 3 years old. This is because approximately 60% of craniofacial development is completed by age 6, and by age 8, 90% is finished.
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