Early Interceptive Treatment

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment management. Early intervention can guide growth and development, preventing serious problems later. If not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor development to begin treatment when it is ideal.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

Early treatment is also known as interceptive treatment or Phase I treatment. Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are: creating room for crowded erupting teeth, creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth, reducing the risk of trauma of protruding front teeth, preserving space for teeth that are coming in, and reducing the need for tooth removal. Phase II treatment occurs when all of the permanent teeth erupt and usually involves a full set of braces.

Does everyone need Phase I treatment?

No, only certain bites benefit from early intervention. In most instances, it is best to wait until ages 9-12 before starting orthodontics. Dr. Grubaugh will diagnose and consider the individual needs of each patient, in order to determine the optimal time to begin treatment.

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