What is interceptive orthodontic treatment and what to expect if your child needs it?

In the past, children did not begin orthodontic treatment until they were between the ages of twelve and fourteen, after the permanent teeth had replaced their primary teeth. According to American Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Yury Slepak of the Brooklyn Pediatric Dentistry, children who begin interceptive orthodontic treatment earlier have better results.

If children begin their treatment around the age of seven or eight, when the first permanent molars have come in, they are more compliant, they are less likely to need tooth extraction, and the dentist can take advantage of the child’s continued growth patterns.

While interceptive orthodontics may not prevent the need for braces or retainers at a later age, often by extracting the primary teeth, the secondary teeth will correct themselves, or malocclusions (imperfect positioning of teeth in the jaw) can be fixed before the permanent teeth have fully descended. By having interceptive orthodontics, the second phase (application of braces) may be shortened.

Interceptive orthodontics can be beneficial in the following instances:

• Correct harmful oral habits such as thumb sucking
• Help guide jaw growth to allow for facial symmetry
• Guide permanent teeth into position
• Create room for crowded teeth
• Reduce possibility of tooth removal
• Reduce treatment time when the child is older

If your dentist recommends interceptive orthodontic treatment, know that you are providing your child with the best chance for healthy oral hygiene and an easier orthodontic treatment plan when he or she reaches adolescence