When to Evaluate for Orthodontic Intervention
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should get their first orthodontic screening by the age of 7. An evaluation at this age can help to identify skeletal development concerns and allow for properly timed orthodontic interventions.
Dr. Morin has received additional training in growth and development and the timing of orthodontic therapies. He is able to complete orthodontic screenings and discuss if and how your child can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Regular dental visits can help ensure the appropriate timing of these treatments and timing of intervention or referral to an orthodontist.
Interceptive or Phase 1 Orthodontics
Typically it is best to wait until all permanent teeth have erupted prior to starting orthodontic treatment; however, in certain situations treatment should begin prior to the eruption of all permanent teeth. This type of treatment is called Interceptive or Phase 1 orthodontics. Usually, this orthodontic treatment is indicated to correct a skeletal development concern or dental alignment issue that adversely affects skeletal growth. Oral structures are still growing at this time and Phase 1 treatment is helpful to correct these issues so that development can continue properly.
For this treatment, the patient will wear an appliance and/or braces for a period of time and then will stop to allow the rest of the permanent teeth to erupt before beginning treatment again if indicated. This later treatment is called phase 2 orthodontics.