Interceptive Orthodontics (Early Treatment Orthodontics)
Interceptive orthodontics also known as early treatment orthodontics can begin as early as age 6 or 7. At this age, teeth are still developing and the jaw is still growing. Conditions such as crowding, tongue thrust and cross-bites may be easier to address. Appliances commonly used during early treatment included Space Maintainers, Habit Appliances and Rapid Palatal Expanders.
Space Maintainers : A space maintainer is an appliance used space following the premature or early loss of primary teeth/tooth. There are several types of space maintainers. These included; band and loop, distal shoe, Nance and Lingual Holding Arch.
Habit Appliances : Habit Appliances are used to help in correcting tongue thrust and thumb sucking habits.
Rapid Palatal Expander : Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPEs) are used for correction of posterior cross-bites.
