Interceptive Orthodontics Riverton
Stop Emerging Orthodontic Problems Before They Start
What if you could intervene and stop your child’s orthodontic problems from developing before they require more extensive treatment during their teen years? With interceptive orthodontics, Dr. Paulson can help prevent many alignment, bite, and jaw development issues from worsening by correcting them before they have a chance to cause more complex issues later, all the while improving the symmetry and aesthetics of their smile.
Why Choose Children’s Dentistry of Central Wyoming for Interceptive Orthodontics?
- Addresses Orthodontic Issues Before They Become Problematic
- Can Save Time, Money & Prevent More Serious Intervention Later
- Dental Insurance Friendly
What is Interceptive Orthodontics?
Interceptive orthodontics is a branch of oral health care designed to identify and correct dental problems during the early stages of your child’s oral development. By intervening early, we can reduce your child’s chances of needing more complex or extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.
Our kids’ orthodontist, Dr. Paulson has received extensive advanced training in this specific branch of orthodontic treatment. Under his care, he and the team will carefully monitor your child’s progress and growth, making occasional adjustments and corrections related to the development of their facial symmetry, temporomandibular joint function, smile aesthetics, and more.
Which Issues Can Interceptive Orthodontics Address?
As your child’s smile grows, future orthodontic problems that may not seem obvious to the untrained eye can begin to emerge. Dr. Paulson has been working with kids for over 15 years and is experienced in diagnosing early signs of orthodontic issues that could become more problematic later, including:
Malocclusion
Malocclusion occurs when your child’s upper and/or lower teeth aren’t properly aligned. This condition is very common, but it can cause problems eating and speaking. It can even result in asymmetrical growth of the lower jaw, and joint problems that could lead to painful TMJ disorders. The good news is that with early intervention with interceptive orthodontics, these problems can be prevented or severely reduced.
Dental Crowding
When your child’s teeth sit too close to each other, this is known as crowding. This lack of space between them makes brushing and flossing difficult and can increase their risk of developing interproximal cavities and gum disease, both of which could eventually lead to tooth loss. Using interceptive orthodontics, Dr. Paulson can help guide your child’s teeth into a more ideal placement so there is enough space for them to align properly as they grow.
How Does Interceptive Orthodontics Work?
Interceptive orthodontics are best performed when your child’s permanent teeth begin erupting. First, Dr. Paulson will examine their teeth and jaw to determine if treatment is necessary. If so, he’ll provide you with a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan to address their crowding and/or malocclusion.
Interceptive orthodontic treatment methods can guide their jaw growth and permanent tooth eruption, improving their facial symmetry and balance. This also helps increase the functionality and overall aesthetics of their smile.
Depending on your child’s individual smile, they may be prescribed interceptive orthodontic appliances to help ensure that future orthodontic treatments allow room for proper facial proportions, lip size, smile width, and bite stability. Appliances used may include space maintainers, palate expanders, habit correctors (ideal for kids who use pacifiers or are former or current thumb suckers) or other unique devices as necessary.