Early orthodontic care may aid in reducing costs long-term.

Being proactive about orthodontic health may cause it to be more manageable in the long run.

Why?

Palatal expander – A palatal expander is ideally used while a patient is still growing, causing the upper jaw to widen and reduce crowding in abnormally narrow arches. An expander works by the palate stretching causing the two sides to be pushed apart. As the two halves spread, new bone is added.

If this is done at a young age while the child is still growing, it may reduce the need for extraction and even surgery.

Early interceptive treatment – A short time in braces can sometimes correct problems early on to prevent larger problems from occurring later in life. 

Tooth removal – Getting young patients into the orthodontist early allows you to receive the optimum treatment for them as they grow and gain new teeth. Tooth extraction early on may help prevent more treatment later as there is more room for adult teeth without overcrowding.

The good news is not ALL early visits will require orthodontic treatment.

One of three things may happen during the first consultation.

There may be no need for treatment at that time, treatment will be necessary later in life and can be monitored in the meantime, or a problem already exists, and you are in the perfect place to get started!

If you have any questions regarding early orthodontic care or other care questions, give us a call at Larson Orthodontics today by hitting the button below!