Your child doesn’t need all of their permanent teeth to benefit from early orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, preventive measures in childhood can minimize alignment issues in adolescence and adulthood. At Advanced Orthodontics in Canton, Michigan, expert orthodontist Ritu Singh, DMD, MS, proudly offers early orthodontic treatment to children. If you’re interested in learning more about early orthodontic treatment, make an appointment at Advanced Orthodontics today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.

What is Early Interceptive Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as two-phase orthodontic treatment, is a branch of orthodontics designed to help your child’s jaws develop, ensuring adequate space for all of their permanent teeth.

At Advanced Orthodontics, Dr. Singh uses early orthodontic treatment to:

• Prevent the need for permanent tooth extractions in the future
• Intervene if your child swallows abnormally
• Normalize the relationship between your child’s upper and lower jaws
• Alleviate undue pressure on your child’s incoming teeth

She also uses early orthodontic treatment to correct problems caused by prolonged thumb, finger, or pacifier sucking.

How does early orthodontic treatment work?

Dr. Singh conducts early orthodontic treatment in two separate phases. During the first phase, your child wears a custom oral appliance, such as braces or a retainer. Dr. Singh recommends an appliance based on your child’s personal medical history and goals.

Sometimes, the first phase of early orthodontic treatment requires extractions. This is particularly true if your child’s baby teeth block their permanent teeth from coming in with plenty of room. Following the first phase of early orthodontic treatment, there’s a rest period.

After all of your child’s permanent teeth come in, the second phase of early orthodontic treatment begins. During this phase, Dr. Singh works with your child to ensure a healthy, functional bite and a pleasing appearance. This phase might include another round of treatment with traditional braces, Invisalign®, or a retainer.

When should I start early orthodontic treatment?

If you’re concerned about the appearance or positioning of your child’s baby teeth, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. Singh at Advanced Orthodontics.

Dr. Singh recommends that all children have their first orthodontic checkup no later than age seven. If Dr. Singh discovers an orthodontic problem, she monitors your child’s growth and development so they can receive early orthodontic treatment at the most convenient time.

Does early orthodontic treatment hurt?

Your son or daughter shouldn’t experience any pain or discomfort, while Dr. Singh applies their braces. However, they might experience some pain or general discomfort in the days that follow.

Pain caused by orthodontic treatment is usually dull and throbbing. If your child complains, you can provide relief with an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Don’t wait to invest in early orthodontic treatment. To request an appointment for your child at Advanced Orthodontics, call the office or use the online booking tool. A straighter, healthier smile awaits.