Interceptive Treatment
Interceptive treatment is an early orthodontic approach designed to guide teeth and jaw growth into more favorable positions as your child develops. While Dr. Sullivan typically recommends starting treatment after all adult teeth have erupted, around age 12, the American Association of Orthodontists advises every child to be evaluated between ages 7–9. Early evaluations can identify potential growth-related issues that may benefit from prompt intervention.
Our Approach
With interceptive treatment Sullivan Orthodontics we take a minimally invasive approach to ensure the best outcomes. This may include creating space for adult teeth, addressing jaw alignment, or correcting other developmental concerns while your child’s bones are still growing. Tackling these issues early can prevent more complex and invasive procedures later in life.
Growth & Guidance
For children who don’t require immediate treatment, we offer our Growth & Guidance program. Our complimentary program provides annual check-ups to monitor your child’s dental development, ensuring treatment begins at the ideal time. Along the way, your child learns valuable habits for maintaining a healthy, confident smile by the best orthodontist in Central Oregon.
Benefits
Interceptive Treatment
Proper Jaw & Teeth Development
We guide development early to prevent complex issues later.
Proficient Preventative Care
Early intervention reduces the need for invasive future treatment.
Supports Long Term Oral Health
Correcting issues early promotes better oral hygiene and fewer dental problems over time.
How do I know if my child may need interceptive treatment?
- Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
- Crowded or Misaligned Teeth
- Crossbite, Overbite, or Underbite
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting
- Breathing Through the Mouth
- Speech Difficulties
- Prolonged Thumb-Sucking or Pacifier Use
- Misaligned or Impacted Permanent Teeth
- Jaw Shifting or Uneven Growth
- Family History of Orthodontic Issues
- Habitual Teeth Grinding
- Difficulty Closing Lips Comfortably
Airway Treatment
Improved Overall Health
A constricted airway can severely impact the growth and development of a child and should be considered when evaluating a child’s overall health.
Improved Health
If a child under the age of 12 has a constricted airway, Dr. Sullivan can initiate their airway protocol which takes advantage of the growth of the child to expand the airway. This can often prevent obstructive sleep apnea and improve overall health of a child.