Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends taking your child to the orthodontist for a check-up by the time they turn seven?
If you’re wondering whether or not your child may need early treatment, we’re here to help! Our team has extensive experience working with children, and we strive to create an environment that’s fun, welcoming, and comfortable as we provide the treatment they need to establish life-long orthodontic health.
Schedule a free consultation today to find out whether or not early orthodontic treatment is an option for your child!
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called interceptive or Phase 1 treatment, is recommended when there’s a risk that a developing problem may require significant intervention if left untreated or in situations when an early start to treatment may result in a more successful final outcome.
Phase 1 treatments are often performed between ages 7 and 9, and they can range from removable appliances like active retainers, to maxillary expanders, headgears and partial braces. In some cases, early treatment can even be done with clear aligners!
What Are the Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics?
For children who need it, there are many benefits of Phase 1 orthodontics.
By getting ahead of significant orthodontic issues and treating them as they develop, early treatment helps reduce the risk of:
- Speech and eating problems
- Significant overbite or underbite
- Impacted adult teeth
- Injury in teeth, gums, and jawbones
- Bruxing, or teeth grinding
- Expensive and lengthy orthodontic treatments into adulthood
- Cavities and other tooth decay
- Periodontal disease and gum disease
Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments Available at Herring Orthodontics
At Herring Orthodontics, we offer two main types of Phase 1 orthodontic treatment for our youngest patients: Invisalign First and Phase 1 braces.
Phase 1 Braces
Phase 1 Braces treatment is much like braces treatment for teenage and adult patients. Using metal brackets, wires, and colored rubber bands, these braces gently shift your child’s teeth into their correct positions and help establish a proper bite alignment. Expansion appliances and different types of growth modifying appliances, like headgear, may be useful in some cases, depending on your child’s unique treatment needs.
Phase 1 Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign First, are a viable option for children as young as six. They are specifically designed to assist the proper development of children’s smiles as they grow. Clear aligners feature removable trays that make it easy to brush and floss and are designed to provide maximum comfort for your little one as they receive treatment. This treatment option can address a wide range of developing orthodontic issues, including some complex cases.
What If My Child Does Not Need Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
After performing a thorough examination, Dr. Herring may determine that no early treatment is necessary. In this relatively common scenario, we will recommend periodic observation appointments to monitor your child’s growth and dental development. Just like the initial examination, these checkups are offered at no cost, and they help patients become comfortable with our team and office environment over time.
Secure Your Child’s Smile With Interceptive Treatment in Hickory, NC at Herring Orthodontics
Early orthodontic treatment is an important and incredibly worthwhile option for children with serious developing orthodontic issues! With years of experience in growing healthy smiles, we know how to put your child on a path to lasting orthodontic health.
To schedule your Phase 1 treatment consultation, call us at our Hickory, NC office or complete our online form with the link below. We look forward to meeting your family and helping your child show off their smile!
