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Early treatment

Early orthodontic treatments can play a crucial role in guiding the proper development of a child's teeth and jaws. Addressing issues at a young age can help prevent more complex problems in the future and ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come!

During your initial consultation, we will recommend the best treatment option based on your individual needs.

Early treatment

What is early treatment?

Early treatment, also known as interceptive treatment, is a proactive approach to orthodontic treatment. It aims to correct specific problems early, using the most appropriate solution available. This often promotes a healthier bite and may reduce the need for more extensive treatment later on.

What is early treatment?

Give your child a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime!

When is early treatment necessary?

We recommend you book your child’s first orthodontic consultation at the age of 7. That is when early orthodontic treatment can begin, but treatment is only recommended when there are signs of clear issues that could worsen over time.

What problems can be helped by early treatment?

Early treatment can address a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, jaw growth discrepancies, and other bite problems.

Are orthodontics always needed?

Braces or clear aligners aren’t always needed at this age. And if they are, it’s often a gentler, shorter treatment than if you waited until later years.

Common solutions

Dr. Janice Sommerville has years of experience diagnosing and treating early dental issues:

  • Palate Expansion: Used to correct narrow palates and widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to grow in properly
  • Crossbite Corrections: Correcting this issue early can prevent uneven jaw growth, future discomfort, and uneven wear on the teeth.
  • Tooth Alignment: Aligning teeth that are growing in crooked or misaligned can make later treatments simpler and more effective.
  • Habit Correction: Designed to help break harmful habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.
  • Space maintainers: Used to hold space for permanent teeth when a baby tooth is lost prematurely.
Common solutions

Early treatment FAQs

Is it good to get braces early?

What is the earliest you can get braces?

Are phase 1 braces worth it?

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Think your child may need early treatment?

Signs that your child may need early orthodontic treatment include difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, thumb sucking, and early or late loss of baby teeth. An orthodontic consultation is the best way to identify the need for early intervention.

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Think your child may need early treatment?