When is the best time to begin children orthodontics?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. This is because by the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite, thus allowing an orthodontist to evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment in children and teen braces. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Please be aware that Dr. Jaffe will only recommend early treatment if there are specific issues related to jaw growth or tooth eruption that require intervention. If a patient can be treated just as effectively, and more efficiently at a later time in the teen years, early treatment will not be recommended.
What is interceptive treatment?
Interceptive treatment, sometimes also referred to as early treatment or phase I treatment, is a method of orthodontic treatment in which the orthodontist guides growth and development, usually with appliance therapy, prior to eruption of all the adult teeth. The goal of early treatment is to correct problems in children which may become more serious later. The most common reasons for early intervention are crowding, teeth erupting in the wrong position, asymmetric or abnormal jaw growth, and protrusive front teeth which are at risk of trauma.
What happens after early treatment?
Generally, phase I treatment last for about a year. In most cases phases I is followed by an observation period, during which time Dr. Jaffe is continuing to monitor eruption of permanent teeth. During this period, the children may or may not have some form of retainers, and is seen 2-3 times per year. This stage usually lasts for several years.
Phase II
Phase II is the definitive stage of treatment in which all adult teeth with be aligned and the bite will be finalized. Typically this happens in the teen years and stage lasts about 18 months, and will always be followed by retainer wear.
Why are children beginning treatment so much younger today than when I was a child?
As with all phases of medicine, advances in children and teen care are being made in orthodontics all the time. Experience has taught us that some problems are best treated prior to eruption of all of the permanent teeth. If left untreated, these problems can result in a compromised treatment later on. By setting the stage early, we are giving ourselves the opportunity to create the best result possible- a result which will last a lifetime.
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