Interceptive orthodontics

Question 1

What is interceptive orthodontics

Answer 1

Any treatment which eliminates or reduces the severity of developing malocclusion

Question 2

What are the aims of inteveptive orthodontics

Answer 2

1. Maintain centrelines
2. Maintain class I incisor relationship
3. Maintain good vertical and transverse relationship
4. Eliminate crossbones associated with displacement./ pathology
5. Prevention of trauma
6. Minimise crowding
7. Minimise psychological factors- bullying

Question 3

When do we carry out interceptive orthodontics

Answer 3

1. Failure/ delayed eruption
2. Crossbones with displacement/ wear
3. Teeth with a poor prognosis
4. When there is trauma to permanent teeth
5. If there is severe skeletal patterns where early treatment may be appropriate

Question 4

What can fall under the category of failure/ delayed eruption

Answer 4

1. Impacted first permanent molars
2. Unerupted upper central incisors
3. Infraoccluded deciduous teeth
4. Unerupted upper canines

Question 5

What is the aetiology of impacted first permanent molars

Answer 5

Multifactorial:
1. Increased m-d width of 6
2. Increased eruption angle of 6
3. Crowding posterior maxilla
4. Genetics

Question 6

What problems can impacted first permanent molars lead to

Answer 6

1. Can cause caries of 2nd deciduous molar tooth and first permanent molar
2. Can lead to root resorption of second deciduous molar tooth
3. Space loss if the 2nd deciduous molar tooth is lost