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Orthodontics

The Benefits of Early Orthodontics

May 24 • 2 minute read

Braces For Young Kids in Plainfield


Orthodontics can be used to enhance a smile at any age. However, there is an optimal time to start treatment. Interceptive orthodontics, or early orthodontics, can begin as early as age 6 or 7.

When treatment begins this early, certain conditions can
be easier to address because the teeth and jaw are still growing. Evaluating problems early on provides a greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Intervention can guide growth and development and prevent serious and more costly problems later.
Even if early intervention is not necessary, having an initial examination can give the dentist a head start on monitoring development and aid in deciding when is the best time for orthodontic intervention.


Phases of Orthodontic Treatments


Early orthodontics are performed in two stages, the first phase, and the second phase.

Phase 1 of Orthodontic Treatment

The first method is designed to prevent a problem from developing or to minimize the severity of an existing problem.

Phase 2 of Orthodontic Treatment

The second phase occurs after the permanent
teeth have fully erupted and are easier to move into their final positions with traditional braces.


Early orthodontics can be useful when the dental arches and jaws are not in the proper position. This misalignment is called malocclusion and can affect the way you smile and chew, and the ability to properly clean your teeth. Crowded teeth are more difficult
to brush and floss which may lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Some of the results of early interception treatment include:



  • Creating room for erupting and crowded teeth

  • Reducing the need for tooth removal

  • Creating facial symmetry

  • Preserving space for new teeth

  • Lowering the need for tooth extractions

  • Reducing the time of treatment with braces


Before the permanent teeth come in it is possible to help them come in straighter. If the dental arch is too small to fit all the expected teeth, a device called a palatal expander can be used to enlarge the upper dental arch. This device looks similar
to a retainer and can help re-shape the palate to accommodate the incoming teeth. More treatment like traditional braces may be needed later, but the length and duration can be significantly reduced.


Advancement in Orthodontics


Early treatment does not apply to all orthodontic problems, but it may help in certain cases. Braces have improved in the past couple of decades and technology has made them more comfortable and more attractive. With proper treatment planning a
child who has early orthodontics may enjoy better self-confidence, optimal tooth and bite function, improved tooth and jaw alignment, and more stable results.

Visit Millennium Family Dental and let us help you determine if early orthodontic treatment
is right for your child. Call our Plainfield office today and set up a comprehensive evaluation. 

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Phone: (815) 577-9000