Our Burnaby children's dentists explain how phased interceptive orthodontics allows orthodontic treatment to begin early, in order to take advantage of the child's ongoing oral development.
Phase 1 ('Interceptive') Orthodontic Treatment
At SmileTown Burnaby, our children's dentists use interceptive orthodontics to diagnosis and treat orthodontic issues before they have an opportunity to fully develop and become more complex.
Phase 1 orthodontics allows dentists to take advantage of the child's ongoing dental development by treating children between 7-11 years of age, before all the adult teeth have grown in.
Interceptive orthodontics starts while there is still a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, and can help to minimize the number of extractions required when treating orthodontic issues.
Goals of Phase 1 Treatment
Interceptive orthodontic treatment is used to help make room for the child's existing teeth as well as the incoming adult teeth.
Phase 1 Interceptive Treatment:
- Helps to prevent pre-existing bite issues from becoming more severe
- Allows dentists to address existing tooth misalignment issues
- Can make Phase 2 treatment easier and shorter
Assessing the Need for Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment
Our SmileTown dentists will do a thorough evaluation of your child's dental health to help determine whether your child could benefit from interceptive orthodontic treatment. If your child is a good candidate for Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, our team of dental professionals will walk you through all the options, and explain the impact they'll have on the development of your child's smile.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment Options
To help guide children's teeth into their proper positions as they grow in, interceptive braces and oral appliances can be used. New Invisalign® First is also available for Phase 1 Interceptive treatment. Your child's dentist will evaluate your child's needs and recommend the orthodontic treatment that is best for your child's smile.