Children with severe bite and alignment issues need treatment to facilitate the growth of adult teeth. Although some parents may hesitate to pursue treatment due to the cost, their child can benefit from minimized braces care and dental treatments in the future. If your child needs phase one orthodontic treatment, consider the benefits it can provide.
A Straight Adult Smile
Your child’s development determines whether or not they will require phased treatment. The way their jaw forms and their first adult teeth grow in are important indicators of potential future treatments. A jaw that is too small or impedes normal bite function requires a solution to correct alignment. These bite problems are addressed with palatal expanders and headgear appliances. An orthodontic examination reveals the state of your child’s teeth development, and what sort, if any, of treatments they will require. These exams are recommended for children age 7 on up, but regular dental appointments increase the chance that problems will be found before they are too serious.
In phase one orthodontic treatment, braces are only attached to the existing adult teeth. Aligned teeth guide the rest of the smile into place, giving your child the chance to have a uniform smile into their adult years.
Phase One Treatment as a Preventive Solution
The goal of early braces treatment is to protect your child’s smile for their lifetime. Occlusal issues can cause a range of health problems as your child grows up. Crooked teeth can trap food particles and be difficult to clean, which supports the growth of bacteria. With a proper bite, your child avoids the risk of damaging teeth or becoming subject to jaw joint issues. These can cause discomfort and permanent damage that requires extensive restoration. With a proper bite, your child avoids the risk of teeth and jaw damage.
Phase one offers the opportunity to avoid or minimize traditional braces treatment in high school, reducing costs of extensive brace care later on. Your child can also benefit from having a straight smile that boosts their self-confidence. Even if the second round of treatment is required, it can be more efficiently accomplished by building off the initial phase. In most cases, your child benefits from early orthodontic treatment, establishing positive oral health for a lifetime.
To schedule an orthodontic consultation for your child, call us today. We see children from age seven on up for phase one treatment, and we provide the gentle care they need to obtain a beautiful smile.