Children’s Braces & Interceptive Orthodontics | Understanding Interceptive Orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics focuses on identifying and addressing dental and jaw issues in children at an early stage, ideally between the ages of 6 and 10. This proactive approach helps in guiding proper jaw development, correcting bite problems, and reducing the need for complex orthodontic treatments later in life.
When Should Children See an Orthodontist?
According to global best practices, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This allows orthodontists to detect early signs of malocclusion (misaligned teeth or jaw problems) and take necessary steps to intervene before issues worsen. Early assessments can also help in identifying problems such as crowding, crossbites, overbites, and underbites before they become more difficult to treat.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Scientific, evidence-based research supports the benefits of early orthodontic intervention. In many countries, it is standard practice for children to visit orthodontists at a young age to ensure optimal oral health development. Early treatment can:
- Prevent serious orthodontic issues in adolescence
- Improve facial symmetry and jaw alignment
- Reduce the need for extractions or surgery later in life
- Enhance the child’s self-confidence with a better smile
NHS Orthodontic Care – Understanding the Limitations
Currently, in the UK, NHS-funded orthodontic treatment is highly regulated and limited to more severe cases. The referral process is strict, and in most instances:
- Children under 13-14 years old are not accepted for assessment NHS orthodontic treatment unless they lost all baby teeth.
- If a child still has baby teeth, they are unlikely to be assessed or eligible for treatment.
- Only complex cases that meet certain severity criteria qualify for NHS-funded care
This creates a significant gap in care, where many children with moderate issues may not receive timely treatment. Private interceptive orthodontics bridges this gap, ensuring that children get the necessary care before problems escalate.
Raising Awareness – A Shared Responsibility
As a dentist with a special interest in orthodontics, my goal is to raise awareness among parents and general dentists about the importance of early orthodontic evaluations. General dentists play a crucial role in identifying early signs of orthodontic issues during routine 6-month check-ups. By working together, we can ensure that children receive timely care before problems become more complicated.
What Happens During a Child’s Orthodontic Consultation?
A consultation for children includes a comprehensive assessment to understand their oral health status and treatment needs. This typically involves:
- Full oral health examination
- 3D scan of the teeth with AI simulation to visualize the expected results
- Panoramic X-ray to assess jaw growth and tooth development
Evidence-Based Research & Resources
For parents who want to explore more about early orthodontic treatment, here are some research articles and resources to read:
