Early Interceptive Orthodontics | Phase 1In Hillsboro, IL
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child receive their first screening at age 7. Starting orthodontic treatment for your child can feel like a big step. But early, proactive care can make a lasting difference. By addressing developing orthodontic concerns now, we may be able to reduce or even prevent the need for more complex treatment later. It is an investment in your child’s confidence, comfort, and lifelong oral health.
Why Should I Choose Early Interceptive Orthodontics?
When it comes to orthodontic care, timing matters. Many alignment and jaw issues can be spotted as early as ages 7 to 10. Treating these concerns while your child’s mouth is still developing allows us to guide growth in a healthier direction. Early interceptive orthodontics, often called Phase 1 treatment, uses appliances to correct problems before all permanent teeth come in. This approach can often prevent bigger issues later.
The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics
Encourage a Healthy Bite
Children with jaw discrepancies or narrow palates may struggle to develop a proper bite. Left untreated, these issues can lead to speech difficulties, uneven tooth wear, or problems when permanent teeth erupt. Early interceptive orthodontics helps guide proper jaw development and reduces the risk of future complications.
Reduce Tooth Misalignment
Phase 1 treatment creates space and helps permanent teeth erupt in better positions. This can significantly reduce crowding and misalignment and oftentimes prevent bigger issues later on.
Address Related Health Concerns
Poor alignment and bite issues can contribute to breathing problems, speech challenges, gum disease, and tooth decay. Early orthodontic care helps prevent these concerns and supports your child’s overall health.
Keeping care affordable
Free Consultation
We accept insurance
Honest treatment recommendations
Options for every budget
We believe that everyone deserves a chance at a healthy smile, and that’s why we do everything we can to make paying for dental care as easy as possible.
The Early Interceptive Orthodontics Treatment Process
Complimentary Consultation
Your child’s journey begins with a complimentary orthodontic evaluation. We’ll take digital X-rays, perform a thorough exam, and assess jaw and tooth development to determine whether Phase 1 treatment is recommended.
Personalized Treatment Plan
If early treatment is needed, we’ll design a plan tailored specifically to your child. This may include braces, palate expanders, habit appliances, headgear, or other solutions. We’ll walk you through every step and answer all your questions before moving forward.
Ongoing Orthodontic Visits
Regular check-ups allow us to monitor progress and make adjustments as your child grows. Our goal is to keep treatment comfortable, effective, and on track, because no two smiles develop the same way.
What makes us different
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Early treatment helps guide proper growth and prevents orthodontic problems from becoming more severe over time. By addressing issues early, we can create space for adult teeth and support healthy jaw development.
Some orthodontic issues are inherited, while others develop due to habits like thumb sucking, mouth breathing, early or late loss of baby teeth, injury, or poor oral hygiene. No matter the cause, we tailor treatment to your child’s unique needs and focus on building healthy habits.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7, or sooner if a concern arises. By this age, enough permanent teeth are present to assess development and plan care effectively.
The cost varies depending on your child’s needs, treatment complexity, and insurance coverage. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation with our team.
Most orthodontic patients are seen every 6–8 weeks, depending on the type of treatment and how your smile is progressing. These visits are typically quick and focused on making small adjustments to keep things moving right on track. We’ll always let you know what to expect and work with your schedule to make visits as convenient as possible.
