What is the primary goal of early orthodontic treatment?

The primary goal of early orthodontic treatment is to maintain normal development. Early treatment, often referred to as interceptive orthodontics, aims to guide the growth and development of the dental structures and jaw to promote proper alignment and function. By identifying and addressing potential issues early in a child's growth, orthodontists can help ensure that the permanent teeth emerge correctly and that the jaw develops appropriately, reducing the likelihood of more severe malocclusions later on.

This proactive approach helps in managing space for incoming teeth, correcting habits such as thumb sucking, and ensuring that functional relationships between the teeth and jaws are established early. When children are at a crucial developmental stage, early intervention can lead to more effective outcomes and alleviate more complex issues down the line.

While correcting severe malocclusions, expanding jaw size, and correcting skeletal imbalances are important aspects of orthodontics, they typically become the focus of treatment in later stages when the individual has reached a more advanced age. Early treatment primarily centers on maintaining a trajectory of normal growth and preventing problems before they escalate.