Interceptive Orthodontics

Is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Necessary?

At Significance Orthodontics, we offer interceptive orthodontics for younger patients. Parents are usually relieved to learn that early orthodontics or phase 1 treatment at Significance Orthodontics is not about braces for kids. It’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of optimal oral health, which is affected by the proper alignment and symmetry of their smile, jaw, and face. Your child’s early evaluation with our pediatric orthodontist in Las Vegas, NV, is not simply for aesthetics but will help guide the growth and development of their jaw and teeth — preventing more serious problems later.

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When Should My Child See an Orthodontist for Kids?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation occur by age seven — the time when adult teeth are erupting. At Significance Orthodontics in Las Vegas, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect issues such as a possible overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. We can tell if your child will benefit from early treatment, as certain issues may not be visibly apparent until prevention is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.

When Is The Best Time To Start Orthodontic Treatment

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Signs That Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment

Treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with Dr. Chen if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:

• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Difficulty in chewing or biting food
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Mouth breathing
• Finger or thumb sucking
• Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
• Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
• Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face

Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment Really Necessary

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What Are the Benefits of Early Treatment?

While parents don’t need to rush into obtaining braces for their young children, some oral health issues can be avoided with early screening and interceptive orthodontics, including:

• Open bites: When the upper and lower teeth are unable to physically touch each other when the jaws are closed
• Crossbites: When the two rows of teeth don’t meet correctly. A misaligned bite can cause tooth decay, gum disease, stress on the jaw muscles, headaches, and more
• Speech impediments: When your child's teeth are not positioned properly, certain speech issues like a lisp, slurring words, or mispronouncing consonant sounds can result
• Injury to protruding teeth: Genetics and certain childhood behaviors like thumb sucking and tongue thrusting can result in protruding teeth. Protruding teeth make your child more susceptible to dental trauma, but can be addressed and corrected through early evaluation

Adolescent Orthodontic Options

Should you choose to forego an early evaluation for your child, we recommend bringing your child in for a consultation once all of their adult teeth have erupted, around age 12. Waiting until this time will ensure any issues they may have can be addressed without having to risk the chance of retreatment at a later age.

Our Process

When your child comes in for their complimentary assessment, Dr. Chen will perform a thorough evaluation of their smile and bite. This will allow her to determine which type of treatment will be best suited to their needs, including interceptive orthodontics. We will also take the time to educate you and your child on what to expect from treatment, plus answer any questions you may have prior to beginning treatment.

Schedule an Appointment With Our Pediatric Orthodontist in Las Vegas, NV