Interceptive Phase (Children)
Dentistry For Children And Treatment Of Interceptive Phase
An orthodontic assessment is recommended to ensure that the child’s teeth are properly developed. Among the services offered by Dentistes REMA we find the orthodontic treatment of interceptive phase
What is the orthodontic treatment of interceptive phase?
It is an orthodontic treatment of occlusion issues to restore the harmonious development of the teeth and jaw of the child. The goal is to facilitate the growth of permanent teeth. This type of treatment must absolutely be in place before all the baby teeth fall out. It is called the “interceptive phase” because it often requires further corrections. The final position of the teeth is often determined by an orthodontic treatment of phase II (braces placement or Invisalign® treatment).
Why use this treatment?
For children aged 6 to 10 years old with a narrow palate or skeletal problem, an orthodontic screening test is performed to identify if the child needs treatment. Several reasons lead to this type of intervention since it avoids:
- Teeth shifting because of an imbalance in the width of the jaw.
- A loss of space following the fall of the baby teeth.
- Displacements or dental deformities caused by the habit of sucking their thumb.
- Teeth wear caused by the closure of the upper dentition on the lower.
- Risk of speech or chewing problems if the anterior teeth do not touch.
- Cosmetic problems due to the misalignment of the dentition.
The benefits of an orthodontic treatment of interceptive phase
- Reduce the risk of future speech problems, periodontal diseases, and cavities;
- Create sufficient space for permanent teeth which decreases the risk of impacted teeth;
- Avoid worsening the problem that would require more complex solutions (such as surgery)
- Reduce the cost and simplify future interventions;
- Reduce the risk of bruxism (grinding of teeth).