What is interceptive orthodontics?
Interceptive orthodontics, sometimes referred to as early orthodontics, is a branch of orthodontics that focuses on treating orthodontic issues in children as soon as they are detected, often before all permanent teeth have erupted.
The main goal of interceptive orthodontics is to intervene early to correct growth and craniofacial development abnormalities, thereby promoting harmonious, balanced growth of the jaw and teeth.
Some key aspects of interceptive orthodontics
- Early detection: Interceptive orthodontics aims to identify and treat orthodontic issues as soon as they appear, often before the age of 7, when the first permanent teeth begin to erupt.
- Correction of growth issues: This type of orthodontics helps correct jaw growth problems, muscular imbalances, and tooth positioning abnormalities before they become more severe.
- Use of specific appliances: Interceptive orthodontic treatment may involve the use of specific appliances such as palatal arches, maxillary expanders, functional retainers, and other devices designed to influence growth and tooth positioning.
- Promoting harmonious facial growth: By acting during a child’s growth phases, interceptive orthodontics aims to encourage harmonious facial growth, prevent future issues, and minimize the need for more complex orthodontic treatments during adolescence.