Orthodontic treatment does more than just straighten teeth — it can have a profound impact on facial development. Early orthodontic care, also known as interceptive orthodontics, addresses developmental issues in children to guide the growth of the teeth and jaws. At Farina Orthodontics, we believe that early intervention plays a crucial role in shaping a healthy, well-balanced smile for the future.
The Connection Between Orthodontics & Facial Development
The structure of the teeth and jaws is closely connected to overall facial development. Misaligned teeth, bite issues, or abnormal jaw growth can affect the appearance of the face, leading to imbalances or asymmetry. Early orthodontic treatment helps guide proper jaw development, creating a harmonious balance between facial features while also addressing dental issues.
By the age of 7, many children exhibit early signs of malocclusion, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, which can influence how the face develops. Interceptive orthodontics aims to correct these issues before they become more complex, setting the stage for a healthier smile and improved facial structure.
The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
There are several advantages to starting orthodontic treatment early. By addressing potential problems while a child’s jaw and teeth are still developing, we can make significant improvements to their overall oral health and appearance.
Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Guiding Jaw Growth
Early treatment helps ensure that the upper and lower jaws grow in proportion to each other. This is especially important in cases of severe overbite, underbite, or crossbite. By guiding the growth of the jaw, orthodontists can reduce the need for more invasive treatments, such as jaw surgery, later in life.
2. Creating Space for Emerging Teeth
As children’s permanent teeth come in, there may not always be enough space for them to align properly. Early orthodontic care can create more room for these teeth, reducing the likelihood of crowding or impaction.
3. Reducing the Risk of Tooth Extraction
In some cases, early orthodontic treatment can prevent the need for future extractions by guiding the teeth into their proper positions as they emerge. By correcting alignment and spacing issues early on, we can often avoid the need to remove teeth during adolescence.
4. Correcting Harmful Oral Habits
Habits such as thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or tongue thrusting can affect both dental alignment and facial development. Early orthodontic intervention can help break these habits and prevent long-term damage to the teeth and jaws.
5. Improving Facial Symmetry
Orthodontic issues like an underdeveloped jaw or a misaligned bite can affect facial symmetry. Early treatment allows orthodontists to address these concerns while the bones are still growing, ensuring that the child’s face develops in a balanced, proportional way.
What to Expect from Early Orthodontic Treatment
At Farina Orthodontics, we recommend an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, your child’s orthodontist can detect any developing issues that may require early intervention. If treatment is necessary, it typically occurs in two phases:
Phase 1: This phase begins while the child’s jaw is still developing and baby teeth are still present. The goal is to address jaw growth, create space for incoming teeth, and correct any harmful habits. Orthodontic appliances like expanders, headgear, or partial braces may be used during this stage.
Phase 2: This phase occurs once the child’s permanent teeth have come in. Full braces or clear aligners are typically used at this point to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
While not every child will need early treatment, for those who do, interceptive orthodontics can make a world of difference in both dental health and facial development.
The Long-Term Impact of Early Treatment
Early orthodontic care not only creates a healthier smile but also sets the foundation for long-term success. By addressing growth-related issues at a young age, children can enjoy better oral health and facial balance throughout their lives.
As adults, they are less likely to need complex orthodontic treatments or surgical interventions. Plus, a well-developed jaw and properly aligned teeth can have benefits beyond aesthetics, including improved speech, easier breathing, and more efficient chewing.
At Farina Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing personalized care that sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. If your child is around age 7 and hasn’t yet had an orthodontic evaluation, contact our team today to schedule a consultation. We’ll work with you to create a custom treatment plan that addresses your child’s unique needs and promotes healthy development for years to come.