Early Orthodontic Treatment

Smiles By Marcello

At Marcello Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Thibodaux, we provide specialized orthodontic care for young patients. Our team delivers top-quality dental care, starting at an early age, to promote healthier smiles and better long-term outcomes.

Interceptive orthodontics addresses dental and jaw alignment issues in children around age seven. This approach uses braces or other appliances to correct tooth positioning, guide jaw growth, and improve bite alignment. By treating these concerns early, we help prevent more severe issues that may require extensive procedures later

Why Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

There are several reasons why its essential for children. Here are a few of the most significant benefits:

Correcting developmental issues

As children grow and develop, their teeth and jaws may not align correctly, causing various dental problems. Catching these issues early through interceptive orthodontics allows us to guide jaw growth and prevent more severe issues in the future.

Preventing overcrowding

One of the most common orthodontic issues is overcrowded teeth. Addressing this problem early can help create enough space for permanent teeth to come in properly, reducing the need for later extractions or other procedures.

Improving facial symmetry

Orthodontic treatment improves dental health and enhances facial symmetry by aligning the jaws and correcting imbalances.

Correcting harmful habits

Early orthodontic treatment can also help children break harmful oral habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting, which can lead to dental problems.

Boosting self-esteem

Crooked or misaligned teeth can affect a child’s confidence and self-esteem. Early orthodontic treatment can help improve their smile, boosting their self-confidence.

What Are the Signs That Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Not every child needs it, but there are some signs that parents should look out for:

Difficulty chewing or biting
Crowded or misplaced teeth
Mouth breathing
Thumb-sucking beyond the age of 5
Speech issues, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
Protruding front teeth

If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s best to schedule an evaluation with our team at Marcello Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.

What to Expect During Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Dr. Marcello will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth and jaws during the initial consultation. This may involve taking x-rays and scans to better understand their dental needs. Based on the findings, we will create a customized treatment plan that addresses your child’s issues.

The treatment process may include braces or other orthodontic appliances, such as expanders or space maintainers. These appliances work by applying gentle pressure to gradually guide the teeth and jaws into their correct positions.

Early orthodontic treatment is not often a one-time solution. Depending on your child’s dental needs, they may need additional treatments later; however, starting early can significantly reduce the severity of these issues and make future treatment more comfortable and less invasive.

How Long Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Take?

The duration of this process varies depending on the severity of your child’s dental issues. In some cases, it may only take a few months, while in others, it may take a year or more. Our team will closely monitor your child’s progress throughout the treatment process and adjust as needed to ensure the best results.

Why Choose Marcello Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics for Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Your child’s dental health is our top priority at Marcello Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We have a team of highly trained and experienced orthodontists who specialize in treatment for children. Dr. Marcello is the first and only female board certified pediatric dentist and orthodontist from the state of Louisiana. In addition, our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology, allowing us to provide our patients with the most effective and efficient care.

We understand that every child is unique, and we take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring we address each child’s specific needs. We design our friendly and welcoming environment to make children feel comfortable during their appointments.