Early treatment

Pediatric orthodontist in Austin, Texas

At Becher & Gil Orthodontics, we know it’s never too early to perfect a smile. That’s why our services cover every age, treating concerns from oral damage due to thumb sucking to adult braces. With a strong start in orthodontic care, a child can resolve issues quickly with minimal intervention, leaving them with a bright smile they’ll be proud to show off for years to come.

Our children’s orthodontist, guided by provisions set forth by the American Association of Orthodontists, suggests that kids receive an evaluation no later than age 7 — or earlier if you notice irregularities before then.

The benefits of orthodontic care for kids

By age 7, most children have experienced the eruption of their first adult molars. This process establishes the back bite, allowing an orthodontist to evaluate the teeth’s front-to-back and side-to-side relationships fully at once. Although many kids will not need further orthodontic treatment during this time, an examination during this stage can allow an orthodontist to evaluate and anticipate the most advantageous time to start treatment in the future.

An early evaluation also allows for early interceptive treatment. If the orthodontist can catch a potential issue before it becomes a larger concern, treatment will be far less extensive and more affordable. Interceptive treatment is generally quicker and more comfortable for the patient. It also:

  • Creates and preserves room for crowded and newly erupted teeth.
  • Influences jaw growth that leads to a more symmetrical face.
  • Reduces the risk of trauma to protruding teeth.
  • Reduces treatment time for braces and the need for teeth removal.

Our services

Aside from interceptive treatment, Two-Phase treatment is another common tactic we use in our pediatric work. Two-Phase treatment occurs when a patient needs corrective work before they can begin regular orthodontic treatment. The first Phase is interceptive treatment, which occurs when an evaluation reveals one of the following issues or an issue that raises a similar level of concern:

  • Large overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite
  • Severe crowding
  • Large overjet
  • Uncoordinated jaws
  • Teeth and jaw misalignment caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting

In Phase One, we’ll treat these issues and continuously monitor them until the jaws are fully developed and the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase Two mainly involves aesthetic treatment so your child’s mouth can look as healthy as it is.

Schedule your free consultation today

Everyone deserves a smile they can be confident in. If you believe your child’s teeth need intervention, don’t delay in seeking treatment. And if their smile seems to be developing on track, a kids’ orthodontist can make sure it stays that way.

Becher & Gil Orthodontics provides the highest quality of service to every patient that walks into our Austin, Texas, treatment center, whatever their age and needs. Our office is open every weekday for your convenience.