Early Intervention

Early Intervention Orthodontics: Unveiling Smiles’ True Potential

At Manchester Rd Dental, our approach to orthodontics goes beyond mere symptom treatment; we are committed to diagnosing and addressing the root causes of orthodontic issues. Our treatment philosophy involves a comprehensive assessment that includes screening for airway obstruction, a thorough evaluation of soft tissues, and tongue positioning. We believe in cultivating not just beautiful, confident smiles but also long-term oral health.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early intervention isn’t just about addressing visible dental concerns; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your child’s smile. By age 6, approximately 60% of the skull has already formed. By age 12, around 90% of cranial growth is complete. We recommend an initial orthodontic assessment when children are between 7-9 years old. This is the optimal time to evaluate both the developing jaws and the existing and emerging teeth. During this crucial phase, we can identify and address issues such as malocclusions or “incorrect bites,” crowding, impacted teeth, deep bites, open bites, and cross-bites.

Starting orthodontic treatment during this critical phase allows us to have a profound impact on craniofacial growth and development, maximising a patient’s genetic potential.

Early intervention minimises the likelihood of:

  • Extractions
  • Complex treatments
  • Surgery in adulthood when craniofacial growth has ceased

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Early Orthodontic Treatment

Several indicators suggest that early orthodontic intervention could be advantageous for your child:

  • Baby teeth are lost prematurely, late, or at irregular intervals, including those necessitating extraction.
  • Teeth don’t align correctly when biting, leading to underbites or overbites.
  • Protruding teeth cause concerns.
  • Crowded or crooked teeth are evident.
  • Jaws or teeth appear disproportionate to the face.
  • Family history includes any of the above issues.
  • Habits such as thumb-sucking beyond age 5, extended dummy use, or teeth resting in front of the lower lip.
  • Mouth breathing, sleeping with an open mouth, or snoring.

Early Detection, Lasting Impact

Identifying these issues early allows us to address them while the jaws are still developing and the bone is flexible. This means treatment can be simpler, quicker, and more effective compared to waiting until the teen or adult years, when more complex and costly interventions may be necessary.

Our early intervention orthodontic approach aims to:

  • Guide healthy jaw growth.
  • Create ample space for adult teeth, reducing the need for extractions.
  • Minimise the risk of trauma to protruding teeth.
  • Alleviate emotional stress, especially if teasing or self-esteem issues arise.
  • Promote better oral hygiene.
  • Decrease the likelihood of complex treatments or surgeries in the future.
  • Continue long-term care through regular dental examinations.
Invest in your child’s smile and overall well-being. Contact us at Manchester Rd Dental to schedule a comprehensive orthodontic assessment and embark on the journey to unlock the full potential of their beautiful smile.