Early
Orthodontic Treatment
Getting Growth and Development on Track
Welcome to Orthodontic Boutique, Darien and Trumbull’s top experts in early orthodontic treatment! We’re passionate about guiding your child’s smile on a journey to optimal health and happiness.
Our approach to interceptive orthodontic treatment is gentle, personalized, and focused on your child’s long-term wellbeing, including airway health. We understand that every child is unique, and we work closely with you to create a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and fosters a positive experience. Schedule a complimentary consultation for your child today!
What Can Early Orthodontic Treatment Do for My Child?
Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontic treatment or phase 1 orthodontic treatment, focuses on guiding the development of the jaw and teeth while some baby teeth are still present (typically around ages 7-8).
Interceptive treatment can correct many types of orthodontic issues in children. By addressing these problems early, you can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Crossbite is a condition where the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth and are most easily treated when the jaw hasn’t fully developed. A palatal expander can gradually and painlessly widen the upper jaw to correct crossbite.
Crowding can be a sign that the jaws are too small to accommodate all of the permanent teeth. Simple intervention such as upper and lower jaw expansion can encourage bone growth to make room for permanent teeth.
Protruding teeth, especially those in the front of the mouth, can be prone to chipping and fractures. They can also lead to problems with a child’s self-image. Early treatment can correct protruding teeth while your child’s bones are still developing.
Tongue thrusting is a habit where your child pushes their tongue forward against their teeth. This habit can influence the development and function of your child’s teeth, but can be corrected through early orthodontic treatment.
If you notice that your child is often mouth breathing (an abnormal breathing pattern where the mouth remains open), it may cause the upper and lower jaw to grow abnormally. Early orthodontic treatment can correct this behavior and prevent serious orthodontic development problems.
Did you know that children can suffer from sleep apnea just like adults? Children with sleep apnea often have restless sleep patterns that lead to daytime behavior problems and other health issues. Orthodontic treatment can improve airway health, allowing your child to get consistent, quality sleep.
Early Orthodontic Treatments Available at Orthodontic Boutique
Every child’s smile is unique, and so is their orthodontic journey!
We offer various treatment options to address your child’s specific needs. Whether it’s guiding jaw development, creating space for erupting teeth, or correcting early bite issues, we have a solution to help your child’s smile blossom confidently.
Palatal Expanders
Part of phase 1 treatment can include creating and maintaining space in the mouth so teeth can be aligned properly, airways can be restored, and facial structural growth is balanced. Functional appliances like space maintainers and expanders help do just that! If your child has overcrowded teeth or a narrow jaw, palatal expanders gently create more space for erupting teeth. These custom-made appliances ensure there’s enough room for permanent teeth to come in and help prevent the need for more complex treatment later on!
Invisalign First
Invisalign First gently guides the development of teeth and jaws, creating space for permanent teeth to erupt correctly. The design is also comfortable and discreet, boosting your child’s confidence during treatment. Since they’re removable, maintaining good oral hygiene is a breeze, and your child will face far fewer restrictions about what they can eat or drink! We also offer the new Invisalign Palatal Expander System, which is a safe, effective and more comfortable option, in comparison to traditional expanders!
Braces
Traditional braces are a classic choice for early orthodontic treatment! Braces offer precise control over tooth movement, which can be especially beneficial for complex cases. Plus, advancements in braces technology mean they’re more comfortable and discreet than ever. With colorful bands and options like clear brackets, your child can personalize their braces to express their unique style!
Airway Treatment
Proper jaw development is essential for overall health, especially for young children. Airway treatment focuses on expanding the jaw to ensure open airways, which helps prevent conditions like Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Addressing these issues early can improve sleep quality and reduce health risks, making it an important part of orthodontic care for growing children!
What if My Child Does Not Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic screenings are all about proactive care, and the good news is that many children don’t require intervention at age 7. We will only recommend treatment if it’s necessary for your child’s oral health, and if needed, we can continue to monitor any potential developmental issues with periodic check-ups.
Get Screening For Early Orthodontic Treatment in Darien & Trumbull With Orthodontic Boutique
The bottom line? Addressing potential bite issues early can help your child achieve a healthier, more confident smile for years to come. Early intervention can make future orthodontic treatment shorter, easier, and less invasive.
At Orthodontic Boutique, we’re passionate about guiding smiles to their full potential. Our early orthodontic treatment experts are here to help your child achieve a lifetime of happy and healthy smiles. Schedule your child’s complimentary consultation today!