Orthodontics is more than just making teeth straight. It is a long term process designed to ensure a child's bite is correct by combining skeletal needs with bite function. Through research, we have been able to recognize and address these skeletal problems at an earlier age. We call this early childhood treatment or Phase 1 orthodontics.
What we know:
The width of a child's upper jaw is determined at about the age of 5. When the front four permanent teeth are fully erupted, around the age of 8 or 9, the template for how the rest of a child's face grows is determined. If that upper jaw width is narrow, you will see crowding on the bottom four teeth or even a crossbite on the front or back teeth. If this archwidth problem is not addressed at age 8-10, it means there is a greater likelihood your child will require four permanent teeth to be extracted when the time comes for orthodontic treatment.
Why is it important to keep 28 teeth?
Studies have found that people who have 4 bicuspids extracted have a much higher incidence of TMJ pain. One study suggests it may be as much as 80% of that population.
We also know that people who have 4 bicuspids extracted have a diminished esthetic appearance as they age. They may look great at the age of 15, but as they reach 40 they look 50 and at 50 they look 60.
Benefits of expansion at age 8, 9 or 10:
We utilize an expander called a "bonded rapid palatal expander." It is a great appliance because it helps to heal the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) at a young age. With this appliance, we can also address skeletal problems as needed.
Even with a diagnosis that indicates that early treatment is best, a sincere commitment on the part of the patient is needed to achieve the desired results. Early treatment, in its basic terms, is helping develop jaw bones to their proper place to reduce the need for extractions, create a more balanced face and improved profile, and a better bite for stability and function. Please help us make others aware of what can be done with early "interceptive" treatment.