With orthodontic care, timing will frequently be of the greatest importance. It will be reassuring to parents one day, but threatening, the next. “Phase one,” or early orthodontic treatment for children, is intended for the correction of potential future dental issues prior to the point at which they become firmly rooted permanent teeth. Is this in your child’s future? This short guide gives you the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
What is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment is orthodontic treatment begun before all of a child’s permanent teeth have come in fully, usually between the ages of six and ten.
Its primary purpose is to direct normal growth of the jaw, create space for the normal eruption of permanent teeth, and correct some facial or dental issues at an early stage.
Not everything is done in advance, but orthodontists do recommend so in the situation of extreme crowding, bite problems, or sucking habits like thumb-sucking that may interfere with the formation of the mouth.
Pro: Fixing Complications of Jaw Growth Early
The greatest benefit of early age orthodontic treatment is having the option to fix complications of jaw growth earlier, prior to them becoming worsened. By performing these during the child’s developing years, orthodontists can set up the surroundings where the teeth will grow correctly, and the jaw will be straight.
For example, children who possess crossbites or a narrow jaw will receive treatment in the form of palatal expanders, which will direct them toward developing in such a way that they won’t need more severe treatments later.
Speech disability is generally associated with misaligned jaws, abnormally spaced teeth, or misplaced tongue. Such oral issues can be corrected through early interceptive orthodontic treatment at an early age and ultimately lead to better speech development. In children who are struggling to pronounce certain sounds, early intervention at the source enables them to speak more forcefully and effectively.
Pro: Reducing the Requirement for Future Treatment
One of the most compelling reasons for having orthodontics done early is that it will eliminate the need for more extreme treatment in the future. By fixing issues as soon as they occur, orthodontists are capable of avoiding or reducing the need to use dental braces or other treatments after permanent tooth eruption.
Con: Financial Considerations
Since the early orthodontic treatment pros and cons must be considered, it is not cheap. Parents must plan for the potential for two stages of treatment, which is generally more in overall expense than waiting until after all the permanent teeth have come in to start treatment. Having a good idea of how much your insurance will pay for and negotiating payment plans with your orthodontist can make it be worthwhile.
Con: Risk of Over-Treatment
Perhaps the biggest problem with early intervention is the over-treatment. It doesn’t necessarily have to be that all jaw or dental misalignments are treated early on in life; waiting until further along in development might be more helpful for some. Getting expert guidance from an experienced orthodontist who has the skill to weigh the risks and benefits of early orthodontic treatment in your child’s specific case is the solution.
Seek Personalized Advice for Your Child
All children are different, and any suggestion to obtain early orthodontic treatment must be made in light of their special needs and dental developmental status. Although advantages such as prevention of future potential problems and facilitation of speech development are important, these must also be weighed against potential costs, time, and risks.
If you’re considering early orthodontic treatment for your child, make an appointment with an experienced orthodontist to see what is in their best interest. With their recommendation, you can have confidence in knowing that your child’s smile will be in good hands.