Set your child’s smile up for optimal health
At GG Orthodontics, we have patients of all ages – sometimes children begin treatment around eight or nine years old, other times we begin treatment in adulthood. What is important to us is that we believe in treating patients at an ideal age that allows us to minimise or eliminate extractions and unnecessary surgery.
At our practice in Winchester, we offer early orthodontic treatment to children aged 6 to 10, also commonly referred to as Phase 1 treatment.
What is the difference between early orthodontic treatment and regular orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment
- Ages 6-10
- Teeth are mixed with both baby and permanent teeth
- Bones are still growing
- Usually consists of partial braces or aligners, and sometimes palatal expansion.
Phase 2 orthodontic treatment
- Ages 11 and older
- Nearly all permanent teeth have erupted
- Includes comprehensive treatment, typically consisting of full braces or upper and lower aligners.
Why might my child need early treatment (Phase 1)?
The goal of early treatment is to create more space for the proper eruption of remaining permanent teeth, improve growth of the jaw bones, correct habits (such as thumb sucking), and correct bite issues such as crossbite and underbite. Early treatment may help eliminate the need for permanent teeth extraction and jaw surgery.
Benefits of early orthodontic treatment
- Limit future treatment needs by addressing problems early.
- Treatment can be more effective when children’s teeth are still developing.
- Your child will be more comfortable with orthodontic treatment if he or she is exposed to it at an earlier age.
How to tell if your child may require early treatment
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting down
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth
- Crowded front teeth at ages 7-8
Does your child need early orthodontic treatment?
If you’re not sure whether your child requires early treatment to intervene with orthodontic issues and you would like to learn more, schedule a free consultation today.
Book a free consultationWinchester Practice
St Paul’s Gate, Cross Street
Winchester. SO23 8SZ
GG Orthodontics and Portman Dental Care are trading names of Portman Healthcare Ltd, registered in England and Wales: 06740579. Registered office: Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham, Glos, GL52 3LZ. Portman Healthcare Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker under registration number 700090. Credit is subject to status and affordability, and is provided by Novuna Personal Finance a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply.