Langley Orthodontics, Braces & Appliances

What is Meant by 'Interceptive Orthodontics'?

Interceptive orthodontics is the diagnosis and treatment malocclusions (misalignment) issues before they can develop into full-blown problems.

Early Detection is Key

In the past, orthodontic treatment did not typically begin until around the age of 12-14 years, when the permanent teeth are already coming in.

It was also once common for a dentist to remove permanent teeth in order to correct the bite, and allow for room for the final phase of tooth movement.

These days, however, modern orthodontic thinking advocates keeping permanent teeth, through the intervention of phased interceptive orthodontics. This means treating children at much earlier ages (usually 7-11 yrs.) to take advantage of the fact that the problems, at this point, have not yet fully developed.

Patients at these younger ages tend to be more receptive to, and compliant with, orthodontic treatment. Interceptive orthodontics allows for fewer teeth to be extracted and also allows for better results in the end.

Correcting of Thumb Sucking & Pacifier Habits

Persistent thumb sucking and/or pacifier habits can negatively affect the development of the mouth, and can potentially result in these issues which can be treated with interceptive orthodontics:

• A misshaped jawbone (which is still soft and pliable at early ages)
• Misaligned teeth growing in the wrong positions
• Narrow dental arches
• Extreme tongue thrust habits
• Protrusion of front teeth 
• 'Open bites' that, once established, require extensive orthodontic treatment to straighten

Other Issues Potentially Avoided by Interceptive Orthodontics

Other developmental issues that may be treated with interceptive orthodontics include:

• Constricted palate, causing misalignment of the back teeth (commonly called crossbite)
• Crowded teeth
• Uneven upper and lower jaw development

When is a Child a Candidate for Interceptive Orthodontics?

Before recommending orthodontic intervention, the dentists at Smile Town Langley will perform an early evaluation in order to determine whether your child is a candidate. If he or she is, our team will walk you through all the options and how they can positively influence the development of your child's smile.

Ultimately, with the support of the Smile Town Langley Team, you'll be able to make a well-informed decision about which route to take.

Examples of Treatable Issues:

• Upper jaw expansion to eliminate a crossbite
• Expansion of one or both jaws to make room for overly crowded teeth
• Early removal of certain baby teeth to facilitate the correct eruption of permanent teeth
• Maintaining space for permanent teeth after a baby tooth have fallen out prematurely

Advantages & Potential Results: