Preventive and interceptive orthodontics for children

Preventive and interceptive orthodontics are designed for children aged 6 to 10. Its aim is to prevent the appearance or worsening of malpositioned teeth and jaws by intervening early on the causes: guiding growth, correcting habits (thumb/nipple) and creating space for permanent teeth.

Using functional appliances or space maintainers, the orthodontist can correct a slight misalignment, guide growth and prevent more complex problems. Early interventions are short and well tolerated.

It is advisable to carry out an initial orthodontic examination when the child is 6 or 7 years old. This appointment is not necessarily intended to start treatment, but rather to assess growth and identify any small anomalies. Depending on the case, the orthodontist may simply suggest annual follow-up until adolescence, or recommend a small interceptive treatment to correct a specific problem. Regular monitoring means we can intervene at the right time without stressing either the child or the parents.

• The front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed: a persistent gap between the incisors may indicate a growth problem or a habit such as thumb-sucking.
• The width of the jaws does not match: if the lower or upper arch is too narrow, the teeth may not fit together properly.
• Premature loss of deciduous teeth: when deciduous teeth fall out too early, neighbouring teeth shift and reduce the space needed for permanent teeth.
• Deformation of the jaw or shifting of the teeth due to habits such as thumb sucking or prolonged use of the dummy.
  If you observe any of these signs, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis will help determine the best solution for your child and reassure them about what to expect.

Intervening early has many advantages: malocclusions are corrected before they become complicated, the total duration of treatment is reduced and the harmonious development of the face is encouraged. 

Finally, your child will gradually become familiar with the world of teeth and will experience this stage in a positive way, developing a greater awareness of his or her oral health.

1. Complete diagnosis : The orthodontist takes x-rays and impressions, which are used to draw up a personalised plan. This stage is painless and is often completed in a single visit.
2. Fitting the appliance : Depending on requirements, it may be a functional appliance that guides growth, or a retractor that develops the maxillae.
3. Regular follow-up : Visits every 4 to 6 weeks for 6 to 9 months enable progress to be checked and the device to be adjusted. These appointments are quick and reassuring for the child.
4. Contention phase : Often once the goal has been achieved, a retainer (often worn at night) stabilises the results until the permanent teeth are firmly in place.