Progressive Techniques

Progressive Techniques Catch Problems Early

Most authorities agree that six or seven is a good age for your child's first orthodontic examination. Because they are growing so rapidly, children can often benefit enormously from Early Interceptive Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics. Using contemporary techniques, many treatment goals can be accomplished in a "first phase" of treatment at a younger age, often reducing or eliminating the need for extraction of permanent teeth when the child is older and the teeth have fully erupted into the mouth. Saving these teeth often results in a fuller smile, more attractive appearance, and better dental function.

Orthodontic ("straight teeth") and orthopedic ("straight bones") appliances can also be used to correct jaw shape and size and to direct the growth of your child's facial bones toward an ideal relationship between the upper and lower jaws. By the time the permanent teeth have all erupted, the child is often thirteen or fourteen and growth is almost complete! In addition, habits which may be detrimental to your child's dental development, such as thumb or finger sucking and tongue thrusting can be "intercepted" and corrected earlier, with less chance of becoming permanent. Finally, proper development of the jaws and teeth can enhance speech development.

Usually, a later "finishing phase" of orthodontics with braces is necessary to finalize the details of a proper bite and a great looking smile. While the goals of the early interceptive phase are oriented toward bones and function, the finishing phase is more involved with proper tooth alignment. Both phases are important in achieving outstanding results!

We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding "Early Interceptive Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics".

E-mail us: DrFrank@DrFrankSmiles.com Staff@DrFrankSmiles.com