Early Orthodontic Treatment: Why it Can Make a Big Difference
The timing of orthodontic treatment can make a huge difference in a child’s long-term oral health. Every parent wants their child to have a confident, healthy smile, and early orthodontic treatment, sometimes referred to as interceptive orthodontics or Phase 1 orthodontics, involves addressing dental issues while your child still has some baby teeth, setting the stage for smoother development of permanent teeth.
The British Orthodontic Society recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation from age of 7 as they will have a good mix of baby and adult teeth, especially if parents or dentists notice concerns with tooth alignment, bite or jaw growth.
While NHS orthodontic treatment typically begins in the early teenage years, private practices can provide earlier assessments and guidance through early orthodontic treatment, helping children avoid more extensive interventions later on.
In this article we will cover:
- What is early orthodontic treatment
- Signs that your child may require early orthodontic treatment
- The benefits of acting early
- What happens at a specialist practice
- Early orthodontic treatment FAQs
Book your child in for a FREE initial assessment or call us to discuss your concerns on 01865 638333
What is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment is the intervention for children who still have some of their baby teeth. It doesn’t always involve fitting braces. It may just be simple monitoring or using a removable appliance that gently influences growth and the correct alignment of the teeth.
Early treatment differs from standard orthodontic care. Because it happens before all the permanent teeth have erupted. The goal is to create a healthy foundation for future dental development. This can, in some cases, prevent the need for braces altogether.
Even if your child doesn’t show obvious signs, an early assessment can give peace of mind and help prevent issues before they start.
Signs That Your Child May Require Early Orthodontic Treatment
It can be challenging to determine whether you think your child would benefit from a paediatric orthodontic evaluation, particularly when they wouldn’t be referred by the NHS until their teenage years. Some of the most common orthodontic problems include:
- Losing baby teeth too early or too late: Most children start losing baby teeth around age 5 and have all their adult teeth by around 13. Losing them outside this window could indicate alignment concerns
- Difficulty chewing or biting: Trouble eating or discomfort when biting certain foods may suggest a bite issue
- Mouth breathing: Consistent mouth breathing can impact jaw development and tooth positioning
- Thumb or finger sucking after age 5: Prolonged habits can cause teeth to protrude or create bite irregularities
- Speech difficulties: Certain speech impediments can be linked to jaw or tooth alignment
- Protruding or misaligned teeth: Teeth that stick out or don’t meet evenly may indicate bite problems such as an overbite, underbite or open bite
- Jaw shifting: A jaw that shifts to one side when opening or closing may point to a crossbite
- Crowding: Overlapping or crowded front teeth around age 7 or 8 may benefit from early orthodontic attention
If you have noticed any of these signs in your child, an early orthodontic assessment can help identify if they need treatment or just monitoring.
The Benefits of Acting Early
Early orthodontic intervention offers several important benefits, improving both a child’s health and their confidence:
- Guides proper jaw growth and helps permanent teeth come in more evenly
- Prevents more complex orthodontic treatment later on, saving time and costs in the long run
- Improves facial balance and reduces the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Supports clearer speech development and better chewing function
- Boosts confidence by addressing visible issues early in life
- Completes orthodontic treatment before the challenges of adolescence, helping children enter their teen years with greater confidence.
By catching potential orthodontic problems before they worsen, early orthodontic intervention can help your child enjoy better oral health and a confident smile.
What Happens at a Specialist Practice Like Accessible Orthodontics
At Accessible Orthodontics, our friendly and experienced team is skilled in treating younger patients. We ensure that we create a relaxed and supportive environment to help children feel comfortable throughout their visits.
A typical paediatric orthodontic assessment involves:
- A detailed discussion about your child’s dental and medical history
- A gentle examination of the teeth, jaw and bite
- Photographs, X-rays or scans if needed, to assess development. (Your child’s age will always be taken in consideration to help manage any anxiety around this. We will talk to them and explain everything)
- A clear explanation of any concerns and recommended next steps, whether that’s monitoring growth, using a small appliance or starting treatment.
You don’t need a referral from your dentist to book a private orthodontic assessment. Contact Accessible Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.
Early Orthodontic Treatment FAQs
“My child still has baby teeth. Will early intervention mean that they will need braces twice?”
Not necessarily. The goal of early treatment is to simplify later treatment or eradicate the need for it completely. Some children may still need braces as teens but for a shorter time or with less complexity.
Why would we not just wait until my child is older to have treatment?”
There are certain clinical issues that, when dealt with when a child is younger, make for much simpler and more effective treatment later down the line. It may, for example, reduce the chance of needing more invasive treatments like extractions.
“What age should I book their first orthodontic assessment?”
Ideally, by age 7, or sooner if you notice any of the signs listed above.
“Does early treatment always involve braces?”
No. Early orthodontic treatment may involve removable appliances, growth monitoring or small interventions to guide jaw or tooth development.
Do You Think Your Child Would Benefit From Early Orthodontic Treatment?
At Accessible Orthodontics, we have extensive experience helping younger children with early orthodontic care. Our personalised approach ensures that your child receives the right guidance and support at the right time, which could range from careful monitoring to early treatment.
