Early Orthodontic Treatment - Atlas Orthodontics and Periodontics

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

Our Approach to Early Intervention

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&Up Club, waiting for the optimal time to begin treatment.

WHAT IS THE 7&UP CLUB?

If your child isn’t ready for orthodontic treatment, they become a member of our 7&Up 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

We recommend early treatment for children aged 7 to 10 in certain situations to address orthodontic issues when they are easiest to correct. Delaying treatment can lead to less optimal results. Common problems requiring early intervention include:

Severe Overjet

To prevent traumatic injury to the upper incisors.

Posterior and Anterior Crossbites

To correct the lower jaw’s unnatural and asymmetrical positioning.

Thumb Sucking Habit

To prevent interference with normal jaw development.

Deficient Space for Erupting Adult Teeth

To reduce the likelihood of needing permanent tooth extractions.

EARLY INTERVENTION TREATMENT & PROCEDURES

Early intervention often involves using an appliance followed by braces or Invisalign®. Typically, we see children every 4 to 10 weeks, depending on our treatment goals. After completing early intervention, we provide a Theroux retainer to maintain results until the child is ready for comprehensive treatment.

PALATAL EXPANDER

Separator-Free Palatal Expanders!

Palatal expanders are used to correct crossbites and create space for erupting permanent teeth while the bones are still pliable. 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

For children with persistent thumb-sucking habits, we can use a palatal expander with a thumb crib. This helps restore the upper jaw’s normal width and serves as a reminder to stop thumb sucking. It is also used to correct forward tongue thrusts.

SPACE MAINTAINERS

If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, a space maintainer can prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and ensure there is enough room for permanent teeth. Common space maintainers include the Nance Appliance and Lower Lingual Holding Arch.

PROTRACTION FACEMASK

Also known as Reverse Pull Headgear, this is used to address underbites caused by deficient upper jaw growth. Treatment usually starts around age 7 or 8 and involves a palatal expander followed by a protraction facemask. This can help avoid the need for invasive surgeries later on.

PARTIAL BRACES

In some cases, partial braces are used to address isolated concerns, such as creating space for erupting adult teeth. This prevents impactions, root damage, or the need for surgical exposures. Partial braces are typically placed after an expander has created the necessary space.

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.

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.

EARLY INTERVENTION

THE PROCESS

WHAT IS THE 7&UP CLUB?

CHILDREN ORTHODONTIC OPTIONS

EARLY INTERVENTION TREATMENT & PROCEDURES

PALATAL EXPANDER

EXPANDER WITH THUMB CRIB

SPACE MAINTAINERS

PROTRACTION FACEMASK

PARTIAL BRACES

HEADGEAR

BIONATOR

WHY CHOOSE THE INVISALIGN PALATAL EXPANDER OVER METAL?

Proven safe and clinically effective.*

So easy* a kid can do it.

Less painful more comfortable experience.

No food restrictions.

Removable for better oral hygiene.

Fewer emergency visits.