Interceptive Orthodontics

What is Interceptive Orthodontics?

Interceptive orthodontics or pediatric orthodontics is a type of orthodontics that is applied with the objective of promoting the growth of the maxillary bone as well as the jaw. In addition, it corrects the deviations that are still occurring.

It is called interceptive orthodontics, since it aims to ‘intercept’ the growth process of the maxillofacial structure and anticipate the occlusion and bite problems that the child will develop when he/she has completed his/her growth phase.

It is generally applied in young patients, in very few cases in adults.

There are different types of interceptive orthodontics:

  • Extraoral traction masks: These are indicated for bite problems resulting from anomalies in the facial bones.
  • Palatal expander/disjunctor: It is indicated for children with cleft or ogival palate, since it allows correcting this anomaly.

The best time to apply interceptive orthodontics is between 7 and 11 years of age.

Why is it performed?

The objective of interceptive orthodontics is to prevent excessive wear of the teeth by balancing and optimizing mastication, as well as repositioning possible decompensations that may exist in the whole area, caused by different reasons. It also helps to compensate for bad habits, such as thumb sucking or misplacing the tongue when swallowing. That is why the best time to apply this treatment is between 7 and 11 years of age.

In addition, it also helps to improve the aesthetics of the patient, because it balances the jaw and its musculation, so that the outward appearance is much more symmetrical and pleasing.

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What does it consist of?

Depending on the type of orthodontics, it has one function or another:

  • Extraoral traction masks: Their function is to stimulate the development of the maxilla or mandible. Despite their appearance, they are painless treatments that last approximately one year.
  • Palatal expander/disjunctor: Allows correction of cleft or ogival palate. They last for a few months and are often followed by treatment with braces.

Interceptive Orthodontic Care

In general, patients who wear this orthodontic treatment should avoid hard, very sweet or sticky foods that can damage your teeth. In most situations, common sense guides patients on what foods to avoid.

Another helpful recommendation is not to bite down on pens with your teeth.

Alternatives to this treatment

One doubt that many parents suffer from is the type of orthodontics their children should have. One of the options is interceptive orthodontics, but other options depend on the patient and the factors that lead them to wear braces:

  • Metal brackets: these fixed appliances are the traditional ones and manage to improve bone growth.
  • Lingual orthodontics
  • Invisalign: It is recommended from adolescence onwards.