Orthodontic Evaluation in Hurst,TX

What Are Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments?

Interceptive orthodontic treatments are orthodontic treatments that are performed on a child who still has primary (“baby”) teeth. Although some bite problems are best corrected after a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, others are best treated early. Early orthodontic treatments are used to stop abnormal development and to guide dental and skeletal growth in the proper direction, with a goal of eliminating or reducing the severity of bite issues.

Interceptive orthodontic treatments can take many forms. To give a few examples, a pediatric dentist may recommend any of the following:

• Braces or orthodontic appliances to shift teeth that have erupted improperly to prevent them from damaging the roots of adjacent teeth
• Orthodontic appliances to help expand the growing jaw bone to prevent serious bite and/or jaw issues
• Braces or orthodontic appliances to shift severely malpositioned teeth in order to minimize the risk of dental injury
• Appliances intended to help eliminate harmful thumb-sucking habits
• Space maintainers to help prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the open space caused by premature loss of a baby tooth
• Extracting baby teeth to prevent overcrowding and facilitate the proper eruption of permanent teeth

Are “Phase 2” Braces Necessary After Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments?

Possibly, yes. Parents should know that interceptive orthodontic treatments do not necessarily eliminate the need for future braces. Interceptive orthodontic treatments are intended to reduce the need for future complex orthodontic treatments, such as those requiring extraction of permanent teeth or orthognathic surgery (corrective jaw surgery). A second phase of orthodontic treatment may be recommended after all of the child’s permanent teeth have erupted to make sure those teeth are aligned properly. For this reason, interceptive orthodontic treatments are sometimes referred to as “Phase 1” orthodontics.

Can Pediatric Dentists Perform Interceptive Orthodontics?

Yes, pediatric dentists are trained to diagnose bite problems in children and perform interceptive treatments. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we evaluate the development of your child’s teeth and jaw from infancy through adolescence. If we notice any abnormal growth and feel that early orthodontic treatments may help avoid or minimize the severity of bite issues, we will review possible treatment options with you and your child. In cases where interceptive orthodontic treatments are unlikely to be helpful, we will instead refer your child to an orthodontist for treatment.

Interceptive Orthodontic Treatments in Hurst, TX

Interested in learning more? Call us at (817) 510-6400 or request an appointment online to see if early orthodontic treatment is a good option for helping to prevent or reduce the severity of bite problems for your child. Our goal is to help your child achieve a stable, functional and beautiful smile.

Hurst Pediatric Dentistry is located in Hurst, TX, and provides pediatric dental treatments to children from Hurst, Euless, Bedford, Colleyville, Keller, North Richland Hills and the surrounding area.

This article is intended to provide general information about oral health topics. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any disease or as a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional who is fully aware of and familiar with the specifics of your case. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.