Modern Orthodontics in Palatine, IL | Expert Smile Care

At Clock Tower Dentistry, we are here to help with dental orthodontics in Palatine, IL, with treatments that focus on early intervention and long-term oral health. These orthodontic treatments help by guiding proper jaw development, as well as aligning the teeth through personalized bite adjustments using traditional wire and bracket braces, invisible aligners, or other types of orthodontic solutions.

Traditionally, children began orthodontics around the age of 12 to 14 years old. Orthodontists suggested that it was best to wait until all of the permanent teeth erupted through the gums. Sometimes, permanent teeth needed to be removed to make room for orthodontics.

As more information has been learned, the American Academy of Orthodontics now suggests that children should have an orthodontic check-up by the age of seven. Orthodontics can be used at this early age to treat malocclusions in the early stages when they are diagnosed.

Early interceptive orthodontics are designed to support proper formation of the jaw. Aligning the teeth early in life is important for minimizing the risk of bigger orthodontic treatments that might be needed in the future.

Visiting an orthodontist is essential for evaluating the earliest stages of dental development. Then, the orthodontist can provide personal recommendations regarding a custom treatment plan for an optimal outcome. With dental orthodontics, the goal is to align the teeth and overcome common orthodontics issues, such as gaps, overcrowding, overbite or underbite, and more.

Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Matters for Growing Smiles

One of the most common questions parents ask is why their child needs orthodontics at such an early stage. This treatment is usually the first stage of the overall treatment, with the second stage occurring after the permanent teeth have grown in. By beginning the treatment at a younger age, it is possible to reduce the time that is needed for the second phase or orthodontics.

Early interceptive orthodontics are focused on the long-term results, with a multi-phased approach to ensuring an aligned bite. When an orthodontist begins treatments in the earlier years of childhood, the jaw and bite can be shaped as they are forming.

These are some of the most common reasons orthodontics and early interception are needed:

• Teeth growing out of position
• Crowded teeth
• Long tongue thrust
• The jawbone needs to be reshaped
• Uneven jawbone development
• Narrow dental arch
• Protruding front teeth
• Correcting damage from pacifier use or thumb-sucking

The orthodontics treatments for early interception might include an expansion of the jawbone to make room for all of the teeth, removing baby teeth to make room for permanent teeth, or adjusting the placement of permanent teeth as they erupt. The orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan for your child that will yield the best results for their oral health.

Every situation is unique, which is why the best approach is to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. Our team is here to assist with orthodontic treatments for people of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. Call to learn more about the available services near you.

Key Benefits of Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

Are early interceptive orthodontics necessary for your child? Learn more about the potential benefits of these treatments, then talk to an orthodontist for a personalized treatment plan. Here is an overview of the benefits available from early interceptive orthodontics:

• Avoid Overcrowding: Preserve space for permanent teeth that haven’t erupted yet.
• Molar Positioning: Expanding the palate so that the back molars are properly positioned.
• Facial Symmetry: Choosing these orthodontics treatments for your child helps with symmetrical facial growth as the jaw develops.
• Jaw Alignment: As the teeth are aligned, the treatments also help to improve jaw misalignment and malocclusions. Early treatment is always best for these conditions.

As you can see, early interceptive orthodontics offer more than aesthetic benefits. These orthodontic services are also important for maintaining the overall function of the teeth and jaw. Proper alignment helps to minimize other dental concerns, such as excessive wear and tear, teeth grinding, TMJ, overcrowding, and more.

If your child is a candidate for early interceptive orthodontics treatment, then you should talk to us at Clock Tower Dentistry to see if it is the right solution. Using these treatments at an early age can decrease the amount of time that your child will need to use orthodontics in their teenage years. Are you ready to learn more? Schedule an orthodontic consultation with our team at to learn about adult orthodontics and children orthodontic treatments in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics

Is adult orthodontics effective for correcting alignment issues?

Yes, orthodontics can be used at all ages, including for mature adults. This treatment straightens the teeth and improves your bite function.

What happens during an orthodontic consultation?

During the orthodontic consultation, we complete a thorough examination to determine which treatments are needed and how your smile and bite alignment can be optimized. We offer multiple options for dental orthodontics, with customized support for every patient.

How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?

Most patients require an orthodontic treatment timeline that lasts between 12 and 24 months. The length of your treatment depends on the type of service that you choose, as well as the severity of dental misalignments that need to be corrected.

What types of orthodontic services are available?

Most patients can choose between different types of orthodontic services, including braces or clear aligners. More complex cases often need to be treated with traditional braces, while mild or moderate misalignments might be treated with removable, clear aligners.