EARLY INTERVENTION
The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that every child should have an orthodontic check-up by age 7. At this age, we can evaluate jaw growth and the positioning of emerging teeth. While comprehensive orthodontic treatment typically begins in adolescence, certain issues are best addressed earlier to prevent more significant problems later.
THE PROCESS
During your child’s initial consultation, our doctors will conduct a thorough examination to assess jaw growth and dental development. We look for specific orthodontic issues that, if left uncorrected, could lead to more severe problems. In such cases, we recommend early treatment before all permanent teeth have emerged. However, in most cases, we simply monitor your child’s development through our complimentary 7 And Beyond Club, waiting for the optimal time to begin treatment.
WHAT IS THE 7 AND BEYOND CLUB?
If your child isn’t ready for orthodontic treatment, they become a member of our 7 And Beyond Club. As part of this exclusive club, we provide complimentary maintenance visits to monitor their growth. We regularly update pictures, x-ray images, and measurements to determine the perfect time to start treatment. And don’t forget to spin the prize wheel at each visit!
CHILDREN ORTHODONTIC OPTIONS
EARLY INTERVENTION TREATMENT & PROCEDURES
Early intervention often involves using an appliance followed by braces or clear aligners. Typically, we see children every 4 to 10 weeks, depending on our treatment goals. After completing early intervention, we provide a retainer to maintain results until the child is ready for comprehensive treatment.
PALATAL EXPANDER
Palatal expanders are used to correct crossbites and create space for erupting permanent teeth while the bones are still malleable. The appliance requires manual turning with a key for a prescribed number of turns, as directed by the doctor. Full instructions for turning and caring for the expander will be provided.
EXPANDER WITH THUMB CRIB
SPACE MAINTAINERS
PROTRACTION FACEMASK
PARTIAL BRACES
HEADGEAR
Headgear is an effective tool used to correct severe bite discrepancies and guide proper jaw growth. It is typically worn part-time, either after school or during the night, to gradually shift the upper molars back and control the position of the upper jaw. This treatment can significantly improve jaw alignment and facial profile, reducing the need for more invasive procedures later on. Headgear has been around for a while due to its advantage of not negatively impacting the lower front teeth.
BIONATOR
The Bionator is an orthodontic appliance used to correct jaw discrepancies by encouraging proper growth and alignment of the lower jaw. This appliance is often recommended for children with underdeveloped lower jaws or overbites. The Bionator is typically worn full-time but can be removed during meals and brushing, making it a convenient and effective option for early orthodontic intervention.
WHY CHOOSE THE INVISALIGN PALATAL EXPANDER OVER METAL?
Proven safe and clinically effective.*
Get the treatment you need without the added discomfort,† difficulty or anxiety † of metal and daily screw-turning.
So easy* a kid can do it.
Most children can pop the expander in and out and swap expanders on their own, no matter what their age.
Less painful more comfortable experience.
Every set of expanders is custom-3D printed. It’s sleek and removable with no metal an no screws. Surveyed doctors agreed, it’s less painful† and more comfortable to wear.
No food restrictions.
Sticky foods and kid faves like noodles, pizza, and peanut butter can get stuck in traditional expanders. Mealtimes are stress free with an expander that’s easy to pop out and clean.
Removable for better oral hygiene.
It’s easy to keep up your child’s oral hygiene with no wires or metal in the way. Your child just pops it out to brush and floss.
Fewer emergency visits.
With no metal and no screws, you don’t have to worry about unplanned visits to your orthodontist for help turning the screw or to manage irritation caused by traditional expanders.
