Early Orthodontic Treatment in Inver Grove Heights and Hastings, MN.
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, the sooner you can start treatment, the better!
In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child’s first orthodontic check-up occur no later than age 7.
Typically, early orthodontic treatment (also called interceptive orthodontic treatment or phase one orthodontics) begins while your child still has some of their baby teeth. This early intervention allows us to identify and address potential development and nasal/airway issues while planning for more effective, less invasive treatments down the road. Schedule your initial free consultation today with Miller Orthodontics, and we’ll help ensure your child’s dental health is on the right track to help create a happy, healthy smile.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment and How Does It Work?
Early orthodontic treatment involves preemptive measures to correct early bite issues and help adult teeth erupt correctly. This treatment is usually performed around the ages of 7-10 while some baby teeth are still present, which allows us to take advantage of the unique opportunities your child’s growing facial structure provides.
During an initial consultation, the doctor will examine your child’s mouth to determine if future treatment will be necessary, and he may recommend starting your child on early treatment if he detects any issues. There are a variety of treatments that can aid proper orthodontic development, which we’ll cover below. If your child is not quite ready at the time of the examination but needs interceptive treatment in the future, they should return for periodic check-ups, where the doctor will monitor the progress of your child’s jaw growth and tooth development.
Remember: Your child should be evaluated for orthodontic care at age seven. Addressing any potential issues early on can prevent more complicated treatments later on, ensuring a healthier and more aligned smile as your child grows.
Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments Available at Miller Orthodontics
At Miller Orthodontics, we offer several treatments for phase one orthodontics, including expanders, braces, and Spark clear aligners. In some cases, no appliances are necessary, and potential issues can be corrected by extracting some baby teeth to help your child’s permanent teeth erupt properly. Of course, any extractions are timed to maximize a patient’s growth and development.
No matter what type of interceptive orthodontic treatment we recommend, our dedicated staff of experts will always work closely with your family to make sure you understand and feel comfortable with the path forward.
Spark Clear Aligners
Spark clear aligners use a series of plastic trays to apply slight pressure to your child’s teeth, gradually guiding them into alignment. These clear aligners prioritize comfort, convenience, and discretion, and they can often be a great treatment option for children who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces. Children can also remove their Spark aligners to eat, drink, brush, and floss, making their treatment experience less restrictive.
Based on decades of orthodontic research, Spark clear aligners are made from an innovative, ultra-clear material with smooth edges, and they are often favored over competing brands for their superior clarity, comfort, and stain resistance.
Similar to braces treatment, your child will need to come in for regular check-ups to ensure that treatment is on track. You may also need to work with your child on developing routines/habits to help ensure they don’t lose or misplace their aligners.
Braces for Kids
Braces can be another effective early orthodontic treatment for children, helping to correct issues such as crowding, narrow arches, speech impediments, difficulty chewing, biting, and breathing through their mouth, and bite alignment issues. Early interceptive treatment helps guide the development of the teeth and jaw, preventing more severe issues in the future.
Braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into their correct positions. This treatment can involve traditional metal braces, which are highly durable and effective, or more aesthetically pleasing options such as ceramic braces that blend with the natural color of teeth.
Unlike clear aligners, braces are fixed appliances and cannot be removed. Throughout the treatment, regular check-ups with the orthodontist ensure that the braces are adjusted as needed and that the teeth are moving correctly.
What if My Child Does Not Need Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
If your child’s initial orthodontic check-up reveals that Phase 1 treatment isn’t necessary, there’s no need to worry. The doctor may decide to monitor your child’s growth and development by having you come in for periodic complimentary evaluations. This allows for timely intervention if future issues arise. Early check-ups ensure that any potential problems are identified and managed appropriately, providing peace of mind that your child’s dental health is being carefully monitored.
Get Screened For Early Orthodontic Treatment in Inver Grove Heights and Hastings, MN With Miller Orthodontics
If your child is ready for his or her first orthodontic visit, schedule a complimentary consultation today! No referral is needed, and during your free, no-obligation consultation, we’ll help ensure your child is on the right path for healthy oral development.