Interceptive Orthodontics in Shenton Park

Woman with braces at dentist

Early Care for Growing Smiles

Sometimes the best time to support a child’s smile is before their adult teeth have even arrived. Interceptive orthodontics is a preventative approach that helps guide healthy dental and jaw development early on, often between the ages of seven and ten, when the mouth is still growing and changing rapidly.

Rather than waiting for more noticeable issues to arise, this type of care works with your child’s natural development to reduce the need for complex treatments in the teen years. It can create space for permanent teeth to align properly, correct bite issues, and support facial growth and oral function in a gentle and proactive way.

What Early Dental Concerns Can This Service Address?

Interceptive orthodontics can support a wide range of developmental concerns, especially those related to jaw alignment, spacing, and bite. The dental term for an abnormal bite is malocclusion, and it can show up in a variety of ways, including:

Open bite
Overcrowding or crowding
Spacing or gaps between teeth
Deep bite

Underbite
Crossbite
Missing or impacted teeth

In some cases, malocclusion is inherited. However, it may also stem from habits and environmental factors, such as thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, bottle feeding, enlarged adenoids, or even frequent mouth breathing. Trauma, feeding challenges, and muscular imbalances in the face or jaw could also affect development.

Signs Parents Should Look For

Children may not complain about bite issues, but there are subtle signs to look out for. These include open-mouth breathing during sleep, narrow palate, speech delays, excessive drooling, or difficulty feeding. If you’ve noticed anything unusual about your child’s facial development or oral habits, we’re here to help you navigate the next steps.

When to Begin and What to Expect

We recommend booking an assessment as soon as any concerns are noticed. Timing matters as intervening at the right developmental stage could make all the difference. During your child’s first visit, we’ll assess their bite, take any necessary records, and provide a detailed treatment plan. While there is a consultation fee, we’ll give you a full estimate upfront so there are no surprises.

How We Help Guide Development

Shenton Park Village Dental offers a variety of child-friendly orthodontic appliances designed to gently guide development. Depending on your child’s needs, options may include myofunctional appliances like Myobrace, removable expanders such as the Schwartz appliance, fixed expanders like the Williams appliance, and fixed holding appliances (FRLA).

Each device influences jaw width, spacing, and function, and we’ll help you determine what’s best for your child’s unique needs.

Supporting Your Child’s Smile Together

Interceptive orthodontics is about giving your child the best start for a confident, functional, and healthy smile. If you’re unsure whether it’s time, we’re happy to talk things through with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child still need braces later?

They might, but interceptive orthodontics can reduce how long or how complex future treatment will be.

How long does treatment usually take?

Most plans last between six to twelve months. Some children need multiple phases, depending on their growth.

Is it painful?

Most children adjust quickly. They may feel mild pressure at first, but it usually fades within a few days.

What if we wait too long?

Delaying can allow issues to worsen, leading to more complex or invasive care down the track.

How often are appointments?

Visits are usually every four to eight weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Any lifestyle or food changes?

Yes, sticky or hard foods should be avoided to protect appliances. We’ll provide all the guidance your child needs.

Ready When You Are

Are you wondering if interceptive orthodontics could benefit your child? Contact Shenton Park Village Dental today to schedule an appointment.
Get Started Today

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