Children's Orthodontic Treatment
Many parents don't know that early assessment (when a child is 7-8 years old) can shorten the duration of orthodontic treatment, and reduce the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
Treatment can begin for a child's mouth and jaw have finished developing and permanent teeth have emerged.
At Vincelli Orthodontics, we can help guide jaw development by taking advantage of your child's natural growth patterns before they require complex treatment. Treating kids early at our orthodontist offices in Calgary and Canmore is the first step to supporting the growth and development of healthy smiles.
Growth correction can prevent the need for jaw surgery, and in many cases extraction of permanent teeth can be avoided. Early assessment is key to detecting problems so that care can be delivered at the optimal time.
How can my child benefit from early orthodontic treatment?
Having orthodontic issues treated while your child is young may have an impact on their jaw growth and facial symmetry. Treatment can also eliminate the need for tooth extractions, oral surgery and orthodontic treatment later in life. This can also reduce treatment time with braces later on if they are required.
Orthodontics for Children - Treatment Options
At Vincelli Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment options tailored to the unique needs of children and their growing smiles.
Traditional Braces
Orthodontic issues such as teeth crowding and crossbites may be treated with traditional braces.
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Snoring & Sleep Apnea Treatment
The effects of sleep apnea can cause health issues in children. We can offer treatment options to help.
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Orthodontics For Kids FAQs
Untreated orthodontic issues can easily become serious and lead to more problems as children mature. By intervening early, our orthodontists at Vincelli Orthodontics can potentially offer less invasive treatments and prevent problems from becoming more severe later on.
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What is early orthodontic treatment?
With early intervention, we can offer orthodontic treatment for children as young as 7 who may have bite issues, crowded teeth or other problems.
This is also sometimes referred to as 'Phase I treatment'. Because your child's jaw structure and teeth are still developing at this age, certain orthodontic problems are often easier to address.
Our team at Vincelli Orthodontics is able to develop a customized treatment plan if needed, where Phases I and II are mapped out. By taking these early steps, there might be a greater chance of preserving your child's oral health.
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How do I know if my child needs early orthodontic treatment?
Not all children are candidates for early orthodontic treatment; there are some cases that are best left until the child is older.
Our exam process will give us the chance to determine the optimal time to begin treatment, as well as give you a chance to learn about treatment options, including braces and treatment for snoring and sleep apnea.
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When should I bring my child to visit an orthodontist?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be screened for orthodontic problems by the age of 7 years old. They may not need any treatment at that time, but early screening provides peace of mind. It can help head off difficult to treat problems later on.
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Why should early treatment be high prioirty?
Young children's skeletal structures are malleable as they continue to develop and grow. This makes it possible to change the trajectory of jaw development, potentially helping to prevent the need for surgery as your child develops.
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What does a treatment plan involve and how long will it last?
Treatment can begin when your child still has baby teeth. During the first phase of treatment (which typically lasts up to 9 months), your child will wear a retainer until his or her permanent adult teeth emerge.
After their permanent teeth have erupted, we can identify whether Phase II Treatment is needed.
The majority of children will need a second phase of treatment. However, this phase can be considerably shorter and less invasive if progress is made during early Phase I treatment. That's why early visits are vital to your child's success!