At Orthodontic Gallery, we believe the best time to influence a child’s dental health is while they are still growing. For children in mixed dentition (with a combination of baby and adult teeth), early intervention — often called Interceptive Orthodontics — can simplify or even eliminate the need for more intensive treatments like fixed braces later in life.
By identifying and addressing issues between the ages of 7 and 11, we can guide jaw development and ensure there is enough room for every permanent tooth to find its natural place.
Our Early Intervention Treatments
Space Maintainers
When a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay or injury, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty gap, blocking the adult tooth from erupting.
- The Solution: A custom-made Space Maintainer holds the gap open, ensuring adult teeth emerge in the correct position.
- Types: We offer both fixed (cemented) and removable options depending on your child’s needs.
Palate Expanders
A narrow upper jaw can lead to overcrowding, impacted teeth, or a crossbite (where the upper teeth bite inside the lower ones).
- The Solution: A Palate Expander gently widens the upper jaw by applying light pressure to the two halves of the palate before they fuse in adulthood.
- Benefits: This creates immediate space for adult teeth and can even improve nasal breathing.
The Invisalign® Palatal Expander System
Achieving a broader and healthier smile for your child without the cumbersome “metal and keys” is now possible.
- The solution: the Invisalign® Palatal Expander was specifically designed for growing children (ages 6–11) and is a removable, 3D-printed alternative to traditional fixed appliances. It gently widens the upper jaw to alleviate crowding using a series of custom-fit expanders.
- Benefits: Because there are no manual screws to turn and the device can be removed for easy brushing and eating, it offers a more comfortable, hygienic, and stress-free experience for both kids and parents.
Class II Correction
“Class II” refers to a common bite issue where the upper teeth sit significantly forward of the lower teeth (a “receding” lower jaw).
- The Solution: We use functional appliances, such as the Twin Block, which are most effective during a child’s growth spurt or a more comfortable solution such as Invisalign Mandibular Advancement
- Benefits: These appliances use the power of the jaw muscles to encourage the lower jaw to grow into a more balanced position, reducing the risk of dental trauma to prominent front teeth.
Myofunctional Appliances
Sometimes, dental issues are caused by habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or mouth breathing.
- The Solution: Myofunctional appliances (such as Myobrace) are removable trainers worn for 1–2 hours a day and overnight.
- Benefits: They retrain the oral muscles and tongue, correcting the root cause of crooked teeth while the jaw is still developing.
Why Choose Orthodontic Gallery for Your Child?
We understand that a trip to the orthodontist can be daunting for young children. Our team specialises in:
- Affordable Alternatives: Our OrthoGallery for Kids programme provides high-quality private care with flexible 0% finance options.
- No Referral Needed: You can book directly with us without a dentist’s referral.
- Expert Guidance: We focus on “interceptive” care — doing only what is necessary at the right time to ensure long-term stability.
Ready to give your child a head start? Book a consultation at our Ilford Practice today to discuss a tailored growth plan for their smile.
FAQs
What is interceptive orthodontic treatment?
Often called “Phase 1” treatment, interceptive orthodontics is a proactive approach performed on young, growing children (typically ages 6–10) while they still have a mix of baby and adult teeth. Unlike traditional braces that align fully erupted teeth, this phase focuses on guiding jaw and bone growth to create a better foundation for the future.
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) recommends an initial assessment by age 7. At this age, a specialist can identify subtle issues with jaw growth and emerging adult teeth that might not be obvious to a parent or general dentist.
What are the signs that my child might need early treatment?
Look for signs like early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, or thumb-sucking habits that persist beyond age 5. Other indicators include protruding front teeth (which are more prone to injury) or a jaw that seems out of proportion.
Will my child still need braces later?
In most cases, yes. Phase 1 treatment prepares the mouth but doesn’t usually eliminate the need for Phase 2 (comprehensive braces). However, it often makes that second phase shorter, simpler, and less invasive, sometimes even preventing the need for adult tooth extractions or jaw surgery later in life.
What kind of appliances are used for young children?
We use gentle, child-friendly devices such as palatal expanders to widen a narrow jaw, space maintainers, or partial braces. For children who prefer a more discreet option, we also offer Invisalign First, clear aligners specifically designed for growing smiles.
How long does this early phase of treatment typically last?
Interceptive treatment is usually a “short-term” intervention, typically lasting between 6 and 12 months. After this phase, we monitor your child’s natural development until they are ready for the second phase.
Accreditations
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