EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
A HEALTHY START FOR A
LIFETIME OF CONFIDENT SMILES
Early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth and help prevent more serious problems in the future.
- WHAT IS EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
Also known as Phase 1 treatment, early orthodontic focuses on guiding the growth of your child’s jaws and correcting developing problems before permanent teeth have erupted. It can reduce the need for more complex treatment later and support better facial and dental development.
- WHY CONSIDER EARLY TREATMENT
- Guides jaw growth and development
- Creates space for crowded teeth
- Improves bite and chewing function
- Helps with speech and oral habits
- Reduces risk of trauma to protruding teeth
- May shorten future treatment time
- SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY BENEFIT
- Early or late loss of baby teeth.
- Crowded or blocked-out teeth.
- Mouth breething or speech difficulties.
- Thumb sucking or oral habits.
- Biting or chewing difficulties.
- Jaws that shift or make sounds.
- BENEFITS OF EARLY TREATMENT
- Better jaw alignment.
- Space for permanent teeth.
- Improved facial balance.
- Healthier bite function.
- Greater confidence as they grow.
EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT AT A GLANCE
- Ideal Age: 7 - 10 Years
- Treatment Time: 6 - 18 months (average)
- Appliances Used: Expanders, space maintainers, functional appliances & more
- Comfort: Generally comfortable and well tolerated
- Results: Better alignment, function and confidence
READY TO START YOUR EARLY SMILE JOURNEY?
We make early orthodontic care a positive experience for your child. Book now.
- THE EARLY ORTHODONTIC PROCESS
1
cONSULTATION
We evaluate your child’s teeth, jaws and facial growth.
2
DIAGNOSIS
X-rays and records help us create a custom plan.
3
EARLY TREATMENT
Applicances may be used to guide growth and create space.
4
MONITORING
Regular check-ups ensure progress and adjustments.
5
PHASE 2 (IF NEEDED)
Once permanent teeth are in, we complete treatment for the perfect smile.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should my child have an orthodontic assessment?
An initial orthodontic assessment is generally recommended at around age seven, or earlier if a dentist or parent notices a concern. At this stage, the mouth usually contains a mixture of primary and permanent teeth, making it easier to identify developing bite or jaw problems.
Does an early orthodontic assessment mean my child will need braces immediately?
No. An early assessment does not automatically mean treatment must begin straight away. In many cases, the dentist simply monitors the child’s growth and tooth development until the most appropriate time to start treatment.
What signs may indicate that my child needs early orthodontic treatment?
Possible signs include crowded teeth, early or late loss of baby teeth, protruding front teeth, difficulty biting or chewing, mouth breathing, thumb sucking, crossbites, an underbite or jaws that appear uneven.
What is early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, sometimes called interceptive treatment, is used to guide developing teeth and jaws before all permanent teeth have erupted. It may help create space, improve a developing bite or reduce the severity of a future orthodontic problem.
What appliances are used for early orthodontic treatment?
The appliance depends on the child’s specific concern. Treatment may involve expanders, removable appliances, space maintainers, functional appliances or limited braces. The most suitable option is only determined after an orthodontic assessment.
How long does early orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies according to the problem being treated and the child’s growth. Some early treatment plans may last several months, while others may take longer and include a period of monitoring before the next stage.
Will my child still need braces later?
Possibly. Early orthodontic treatment may reduce the complexity of later treatment, but it does not always remove the need for braces once more permanent teeth have erupted. Your dentist will explain whether a second phase of treatment is likely.
Is early orthodontic treatment available in Limpopo?
Yes. Early orthodontic assessments are available through the Dr. Michiel Roos practices in Polokwane, Louis Trichardt, Tzaneen and Musina. Treatment availability and consulting schedules should be confirmed with your preferred branch.