Orthodontic Solutions for Early Childhood
Early Orthodontic Intervention for Kids: Dr. John Campbell’s Expert Advice
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by the time they reach seven years of age. By that point, although the tooth fairy still has many visits to make to your home, we can see how the permanent teeth will develop and identify any bite issues that may be developing along with them. This allows the orthodontist and the child’s parents the opportunity to plan for the most effective time to begin treatment.
Dr. Campbell's Softer Approach to Developing Crowding
While traditional orthodontic treatments often rely on expansion appliances, Dr. John Campbell takes a gentler approach, especially for children ages 6 to 10.
Instead of using the typical expansion appliances, we use our GLAD (Gentle Lateral Arch Development) technique. This non-invasive, pain-free approach to straightening the teeth helps create more space for permanent teeth. It's comfortable, effective, and offers great results while avoiding the need for more intensive orthodontic treatments later on.
This technique doesn't require the heavy pressure often associated with other appliances and is designed to be more comfortable for young patients. We also use gentle wires to help achieve the desired results without the need for painful or intrusive expansion devices.
When Is Treatment Likely to Be Shortest?
If you have concerns about the alignment of your child’s teeth, or if your family dentist has identified alignment issues, visit Dr. John Campbell for a free consultation. We’ll assess what needs to be done and offer you options and recommendations. If we decide to make a decision later, based on how the teeth and jaw develop, our office is happy to set up a follow-up appointment in 3, 6 or 12 months.
While orthodontic treatment can be done for children, teens, and adults, there are certain windows of time when the treatment can be done most effectively. Identifying that window early can help you and your child – so make sure that you have an orthodontic evaluation done by the time the child reaches second grade. Call or email us for a free consultation.
Why Start Early?
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Crooked teeth are the most common cause of childhood teasing and bullying. In fact, teeth are the #1 reason why kids are teased.
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ADHD is often linked to poor sleep, which can be caused by nasal breathing and airway Issues. It's important to note that a child should never snore. Snoring may indicate a compromised airway that can affect overall health and well-being.
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Early intervention helps identify potential jaw alignment and teeth positioning issues before they become more serious.
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Prevent more complex treatments in the future by addressing problems early.
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With GLAD (Gentle Lateral Arch Development), we offer gentler and more comfortable treatment options.
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Set the foundation for improved dental health and a more stable, lasting smile.
Introducing GLAD…
Gentle Lateral Arch Development – What is it?
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Gentle pressure designed to move teeth and expand jaws at the front and the back using traditional braces for 7–10-year-olds
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We can widen jaws gently and predictably with wires
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Does not affect the tongue and speech
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We minimize the discomfort experienced with RPE’s
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We get better stability of the expansion as the bone responds well to the gentle sustained pressure over time (typically 12 –15 months)
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Better stability means less chance of relapse of expansion
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The enlarged jaws allow the adult teeth to erupt in their new positions after the braces have been removed.
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Often no further treatment is required or is significantly minimized once the adult teeth have erupted.
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Using the protocols developed by Dr. David DeLuke, we are addressing crowding at a young age with full braces. The results are amazing!
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We use full braces on children ages 7-10 years to take advantage of the soft bone tissue which allows us to get stable, wide arches to correct crowding and potential bite alignment issues
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We can significantly minimize OR possibly eliminate further Phase II treatment
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GLAD is gentle, stable, and comfortable!