Childrens’ interceptive orthodontics

Crooked teeth as a child always end up crooked as an adult, just worse. But there’s more important stuff at risk than a nice smile.

Crooked teeth come from distortions of the jaw, which can lead to facial assymetry and distortion. If growth is allowed in a distorted pattern, it may not be able to be “undone”.  Crooked teeth and bite problems  will strain neck verterbrae, and can affect your child’s posture, all the way to their feet.

Crooked teeth are typically associated with narrow jaws and poor breathing.  A narrow, restricted airway can impact on your child’s ability to sleep properly at night, leaving your child tired, with difficulty concentrating and often hyperactive towards the end of the day. A child’s attempts to adapt to these breathing problems can also affect your child’s posture in an unhealthy way.

Just do a simple check and look in whilst your child is sleeping. They should have their mouth closed and lips sealed.

We prefer to see orthodontics carried out in two phases if needed. The first phase is our “interceptive” part and involves correcting the  jaw discrepancies at an early age, before they affect other skeletal development. Treatment is aimed at enhancing room for permanent teeth, which will improve a child’s breathing if they had crowded teeth. This process often means your child can avoid tooth extractions or even braces, but some teeth straightening in a second phase may be required.

An orthodontic assessment is a critical part of your child’s exam at Smile Doctor.