Early Orthodontic Treatment in Marlton and Turnersville, NJ
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children should visit an orthodontist by age 7. That’s because early orthodontic treatment – also known as interceptive or Phase 1 treatment – happens while your child still has some of their baby teeth, and their bite and jaws are still developing.
Dr. Phucas will be able to assess growth patterns and identify any potential issues, even before they arise.
Based on her diagnosis, she may prescribe a personalized early treatment plan or continue monitoring your child’s development, throughout the transition from baby teeth to permanent (adult) teeth. Although many children don’t require orthodontic treatment at this age, those who do can greatly benefit from early intervention and pave the way for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
During a complimentary early treatment consultation, you’ll learn more about your child’s unique orthodontic case, and whether Phase 1 orthodontics is right for her/him. Learn more about interceptive treatment below, and schedule a consultation to get started.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment and How Does It Work?
As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child. Early intervention can help ensure your child is set up for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Early treatment focuses on shaping proper jaw growth, creating space for permanent teeth, correcting bite issues, and addressing alignment concerns in young children.
The process begins with a thorough evaluation. If there is an emerging functional issue in the child’s dental development, Dr. Phucas may recommend the use of braces, palatal expanders, or other early treatment appliances. By leveraging your child’s natural growth, this approach can mitigate the severity of problems, shorten future treatment times, guide the eruption of permanent teeth, and potentially avert the need for more invasive treatment later on.
Early orthodontic treatment strives to achieve a stable bite, optimal facial aesthetics, and improved oral health for your child’s long-term well-being!
Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments Available at Carlyn Phucas Orthodontics
In order to get your child off to the best start, we believe it is important to have Dr. Phucas evaluate them before age 7. If she determines that your child will benefit from early treatment, she will create a personalized treatment plan for your child, including one or a combination of the following treatment options:
Braces for Kids
Braces for younger children work by utilizing traditional orthodontic principles to correct dental misalignments and bite issues. Designed specifically for children aged 7 to 11, these braces typically incorporate smaller brackets and wires, and work by applying gentle, controlled pressure to gradually guide teeth into proper alignment over time. This early intervention helps address issues like overcrowding, spacing and bite problems and promotes optimal dental development and oral health.
Clear Aligners for Kids
Clear aligners can address a broad range of orthodontic issues. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are removable and virtually invisible, making them discreet and comfortable for young patients. These aligners gradually guide the growth of teeth and jaws, correcting crowding, spacing, and other alignment issues efficiently to create beautiful smiles.
What if My Child Does Not Need Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
Not all kids will need interceptive or phase 1 orthodontic treatment! Many younger patients need no treatment at all. Dr. Phucas may decide that treatment should wait until later in your child’s orthodontic development and keep monitoring their development every 6-12 months.
Our goal is to keep you informed and help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile. If interceptive treatment is recommended, it can help your child avoid more complicated and expensive treatments later in life.
Get Screened for Early Orthodontic Treatment in Marlton and Turnersville, NJ With Carlyn Phucas Orthodontics!
Coming in for an early orthodontic treatment consultation empowers you to proactively address potential issues and give your child the best chance for a future with easy, healthy, beautiful smiles! Dr. Phucas can alert you to potential problems and recommend treatment when it is most appropriate for your child.
We’d love to help create a healthy and bright future for your child. Schedule your free consultation today and see why Carlyn Phucas Orthodontics is Turnerville and Marlton’s trusted choice for a lifetime of confident smiles.