5 Basics of Interceptive Orthodontics Every Parent Should Know
Posted on 08/15/2025
Dr. Ross Taddeo Orthodontics takes great pride in helping children, teens, and adults achieve beautiful smiles. Our patients trust us to guide them through their orthodontic treatment, providing expert care and comfort.
Dr. Taddeo is passionate about working with his patients to help them achieve straight teeth and beautiful smiles. Our office is conveniently located at 1561 S. Alafaya Trail, Suite 100, in Orlando.
Dr. Taddeo is a trusted orthodontist in Orlando, specializing in interceptive orthodontics. This early phase of treatment is typically reserved for children ages 7-11. It's designed to correct jaw and dental development issues before they become more severe.
1. Early Evaluation is Key
Early intervention is crucial for identifying potential issues that may benefit from orthodontic treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends parents schedule their child's first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven.
The benefits of early intervention include the prevention of severe crowding. These early evaluations also enable the orthodontist in Orlando to provide parents with guidance on their child's jaw growth.
2. Common Signs Your Child May Need Treatment
Dr. Taddeo educates parents about the importance of early orthodontic intervention. Early intervention enables the doctor to determine if your child is a suitable candidate for palatal expansion, a procedure that widens the upper jaw to prevent overcrowding of teeth.
Dr. Taddeo recommends bringing children in for an orthodontic evaluation if they notice the following signs.
- Difficulty biting and chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Crowded, crooked, or protruding teeth
- Jaw asymmetry or cross bite
- Thumb sucking
Early intervention can prevent the need for more complex treatment later. It can also improve oral health.
3. Benefits of Interceptive Orthodontics
Starting treatment early can make a real difference for your child. Children who begin orthodontic care earlier often avoid more extensive procedures later. Treatment may also be more effective overall, supporting better facial development and jaw function.
At Taddeo Orthodontics, we take the time to understand each child's smile. Dr. Taddeo guides the growth of their teeth and jaw, ensuring everything develops as naturally and healthily as possible.
4. What to Expect During Early Treatment
Early treatment is gentle and comfortable, effectively guiding your child's dental development. During these appointments, your child may receive appliances such as spacers, expanders, or partial braces. These treatments correct crowding, make room for permanent teeth, or guide jaw growth.
Mild soreness is normal for a day or two, but most children adapt quickly. To make the process easier at home, offer soft foods, encourage consistent oral hygiene, and provide positive reinforcement. Dr. Taddeo ensures that each child's treatment is effective and stress-free.
5. Follow-Up and Monitoring
Taking your child in for regular visits really helps. Dr. Taddeo keeps track of how their teeth and jaw are growing and adjusts any appliances when needed. Stopping by often means that minor problems get noticed early, before they become bigger issues.
Children also become accustomed to the process and can ask questions without feeling nervous. Over time, they get more comfortable with their smile and are excited to see the changes happening in their mouth.
Unlock the Benefits of Early Treatment
Early orthodontic intervention provides your child with the best possible start toward a healthy, confident smile. By identifying and addressing potential alignment or bite issues early, you can guide proper jaw and teeth development.
If you are curious about how starting early can help your child's smile, stop by and see us at Taddeo Orthodontics. We love helping little and big smiles grow healthy and strong.