Early Childhood Orthodontics

Why early intervention could benefit your child

Early Intervention

Early intervention with the Tanner airway appliance offers numerous benefits, setting children on a path toward long-term health and development. Here's why starting treatment as young as age 2 may provide the most benefit to your child

Benefits of Early Airway Orthodontics

Prevents Crowding and Malocclusion: Beginning treatment early helps create
adequate space for adult teeth to erupt seamlessly, reducing the need for
extractions in the future.
Optimizes Airway Function: Enhancing the airway space improves oxygenation,
leading to better sleep quality, increased energy, and improved behavior.
Addresses Sleep Disorders: Early treatment can prevent or remedy Obstructive
Sleep Apnea (OSA) and other airway-related sleep issues, promoting better
rest.
Supports Natural Growth: Guiding the development of the jaws facilitates the
forward growth of the maxilla and expands the palate. This supports proper
tongue posture, correct jaw alignment, and a healthy Temporomandibular
Joint (TMJ).

Starting treatment at a young age leverages natural growth
and development. By age 2, facial structures are already 55% developed, 73-77%
by age 4, and 89-94% by age 12. Addressing airway problems early yields
significant mental and physical health benefits that can last a lifetime.

Key Considerations

Space for Permanent Teeth: Even perfectly aligned baby teeth might not

guarantee enough space for permanent teeth. Early intervention helps

ensure proper eruption and alignment, preventing future crowding.

Overbite Concerns: An overbite can obstruct the natural growth of the lower

jaw. Early treatment encourages forward growth, shifting away from a

detrimental downward pattern, which aids in:

Balanced Jaw Alignment: Ensuring both jaws develop in harmony.
Spacious Palate: Providing room for proper tongue posture and function.
Reduced Orthodontic Complications: Lowering the risk of severe orthodontic
issues and extensive future interventions.
By intervening early, you lay the foundation for your
child's lifelong oral and overall health. Early action not only tackles current
issues but also ensures their future well-being.

The Tanner airway appliance offers a comprehensive approach

to improving your child’s airway function and dental alignment.

Here's How it works:

The appliance features a smooth biting surface that
immediately opens up the bite. This creates more space for the tongue and
allows the lower jaw to move forward freely during sleep, effectively opening
up the airway. Additionally, it acts as a guard to protect teeth from grinding
and clenching.

With diligent use for 6-12 months, the palate will expand
and develop forward, enabling the lower jaw to follow suit and create a healthy
bite. Expansion on the lower jaw is also performed to match the width added on
the top, ensuring a well-aligned bite.

After the expansion phase, retainers are worn at night to
maintain the development until the bone stabilizes and permanent teeth emerge.
In many cases, this process results in properly aligned teeth without the need
for additional interventions. However, sometimes a short period with braces
might be recommended for final alignment.