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Early Orthodontic Treatment

What is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Age 7 is the optimal time to bring your child for their first orthodontic consultation, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.  This is because your child’s jaw has developed enough to have some adult teeth present, and to show how further growth and development will continue.

Early Orthodontic Treatment - Midwest OrthodonticsParents are often the first to recognize potential orthodontic problems in their children.

Protruding or crooked teeth, prolonged thumb or finger-sucking, difficulty chewing or biting, or teeth that have been missing for some time but have not yet been replaced by adult teeth – may be signs of potential orthodontic issues.  If you see something concerning to you, it is important to follow your instincts and bring your child for a free orthodontic consultation, even before age 7.

Your child’s baby teeth perform a very important role – they help ensure your child’s jaw develops as expected, and baby teeth also serve as “placeholders” for adult teeth.  Many parents wonder if their child’s teeth are growing in properly, during that transition phase between when baby teeth are lost and adult teeth grow in.

During an early intervention consultation, your child’s orthodontist will examine his or her mouth and oral health, and review with you any concerns they may have about future growth and development, as well as potential early-intervention options, known as Phase I treatment.  

Phase I treatment is focused on ensuring that your child’s mouth has room for teeth to grow into their proper places, improving the alignment of the jaws, as well as the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.  Phase I treatment can include appliances such as retainers and space maintainers, and interventions that can be done right at home to improve oral health and ideally prevent the need for orthodontic treatment in the future.   Phase I may also be recommended if your child’s orthodontist has identified a potential severe issue with the growth and development of the jaw, arch development, possible trauma to protruding teeth, etc.  

Phase I interventions may not prevent the need for braces or other future orthodontic interventions, but can help improve the development of your child’s jaw and make any future treatment quicker and easier, preventing or limiting the need for extra time and appliances during Phase II treatment, such as head gear or rubber bands.  Phase I can also prevent the need for the extraction of teeth to create “room” in the mouth.

Phase II treatment is most commonly accomplished by Metal  braces, clear ceramic braces, or Invisalign®.  Phase II can begin once most of the permanent teeth have erupted, and serves to ensure each tooth is properly positioned in relationship to other teeth, and that the jaws are also properly aligned.

Simple Steps to Getting Started

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STEP ONE

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STEP TWO

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What Patients are Saying About Us

Amazing service provided with highly professional people. All doctors and nurses were very helpful in explaining everything and were very skilled. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Andrzej B.

I have just completed a 16 months orthodontic procedure. Very happy how much of a difference it is! I can smile with confidence! A truly high professional dental and orthodontic services by First Family Dental! Thanks to Dr. Abboud, Dr. Williams and all the staff at First Family Dental and Midwest Orthodontics that showed a genuine patient care…

Sam K.

This has been my go to dentist location since I can remember. I recently took my mom again after her crown fell off and I just can’t rave enough about this location and the dentist that helped us out! If you want the old school family vibe-this is the place to go to. No rip offs if anything they work with you and make you feel comfortable.

Emma M.

My appointment today was outstanding, from being greeted by name by the receptionist upon my arrival, through the cleaning process by Debbie and the dental exam. The equipment is all top shelf and the treatment rooms are very clean and comfortable. I would highly recommend 1st Family Dental in the Burr Ridge Village Center to anyone looking for an exceptional dental experience.

Tony T.

I prepared myself for a life without teeth, and did not think there was anything that could be done to help me. I expected to learn to live out the rest of my years hiding my smile, and living with my digestive problems – until I found 1st Family Dental.

Joe French

Joe F.

Before I knew it, the assistant came out to tell me they were done and she did well. I was so relieved and happy. My daughter was happy and calm. I asked her about her visit. She now has no fears, and can’t wait for her next cleaning in 6 months.

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Stef G.

When I got home and looked at my teeth in the mirror, I was astounded with the job that Dr. Akhikar had done. The new filings were much less noticeable than my previous one. I couldn’t have been more satisfied.

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Henry B.

The staff was friendly and one of the assistants even let me hold her hand while the extractions were taking place! The dentist who treated me was very professional and made me feel very comfortable.

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Cynthia E.

This dental office has provided me the best care and treatment out of any dentist I have ever visited… I have made them my primary dentist because it has taken me years to find a dentist I can trust.

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Brittany M.

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