An Overview of Early Orthodontic Treatment from Bandeen Orthodontics of Battle Creek

While there are certain cases in which early treatment is necessary, we have found that many times early treatment leads to needing a second treatment. Whereas, if treatment were delayed until twelve or thirteen years of age, it would only need to be done once and the results will look just as good, if not better than those who had orthodontic treatment more than once.

In what cases may early treatment be necessary?

In cases of teeth that are very misaligned, extreme self-consciousness, oftentimes brought on by teasing or bullying by other children, can occur. There are also cases where it’s considered an emergency. If there is pain or damage, treatment should begin early. Commonly, early treatment is necessary because there are airway concerns. Airway concerns, and sleep apnea, can happen with children who have normal sized mouths and large tonsils and adenoids as well as with children who have small mouths that should be made bigger in order to address airway concerns.

While it’s not necessarily harmful to your child to have orthodontic treatment done twice – why do it if it’s not beneficial? The reality is, having treatment twice is rarely necessary. In our office, only about one in twenty children we see could benefit from beginning treatment early and having it twice. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but we take pride in showing all of the available options and sharing our knowledge and experience with our patients – even if that means a less busy office.

At Bandeen Orthodontics of Battle Creek, we feel that we are different for offering early treatment as an “option” rather than an “obligation,” and we will have an honest discussion with you about those options! If you would like to learn more you can read our early treatment page by clicking here.