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Early Orthodontic Treatment - Airway Focused Orthodontics
Educational Objectives
After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Recognize the broader health and psychological impacts of malocclusion in children beyond aesthetics, including effects on self-esteem, social development, and airway health.
- Identify key indicators in the mixed dentition phase that signal the need for early orthodontic intervention.
- Compare the two primary treatment philosophies in early orthodontics: extraction vs. arch development using functional appliances.
- Understand the role of functional appliances (e.g., Twin Block) in correcting jaw imbalances and supporting airway development.
- Explain how early orthodontic treatment can help prevent future complications related to TMD, sleep-disordered breathing, and facial growth abnormalities.
- Advocate for airway-focused orthodontics as a health-centered, parent-preferred alternative to traditional extraction-based approaches.
Abstract
Treating Malocclusion in Children: More Than Just a Smile
How we treat malocclusion in children during the mixed dentition phase (when both baby and adult teeth are present) affects more than just their bite. It can shape their self-esteem and long-term health. Estimates suggest that up to 70% of children have some form of malocclusion, making early intervention critical.
There are two main treatment paths: extract bicuspids to create space or develop the dental arches using functional appliances. Most parents and children prefer the second option—no extractions, broader arches, and a natural, full smile.
Crooked teeth can make children self-conscious. They may avoid smiling, which not only affects their confidence but also how others perceive them. A child who doesn’t smile may be seen as unfriendly, which can have lasting social consequences.
Take, for example, a child with prominent “buck teeth.” These children are often teased and may become withdrawn. A common treatment involves using a jaw-repositioning appliance, such as a Twin Block, to guide the lower jaw forward and correct the imbalance.
Early, thoughtful orthodontic care isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a crucial investment in a child’s emotional and physical well-being.
Additional Information
Author Bio
Dr. Brock Rondeau
I.B.O., D.A.B.C.P., D-A.C.S.D.D., D.A.B.C.D.S.M.
Brock Rondeau is a Diplomate of the International Board of Orthodontics, Diplomate American Board of Craniofacial Pain, Diplomate-Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorders Disciplines, Diplomate American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine, Master Senior Certified Instructor for the International Association for Orthodontics and was awarded the IAO’s highest honor – the Leon Pinker Award and Duane Stanford Award. He has published over 30 articles and numerous videos on orthodontics and is also a contributing editor for the Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry and the Journal of General Orthodontics.
Brock Rondeau is one of North America’s most sought after clinicians whose practice is limited to the treatment of patients with orthodontic, orthopedic, TMJ and snoring and sleep apnea problems for the past 30 years.
His expertise in teaching, combined with his insatiable thirst for knowledge in the orthodontic arena has pushed Brock Rondeau to the very top of the orthodontic/orthopedic lecture circuit. He is without a doubt perhaps the most prolific speaker on the topic of functional orthodontic treatment.
Disclosures
Commercial Disclosure
This free Dental Learning presentation is made possible through the continued support of . Dr. Brock Rondeau is a consultant and/or speaker for the following companies and/or organizations: Dental Learning, . Dr. Brock Rondeau may receive an honorarium as compensation from the CE Supporter of this presentation and/or from Dental Learning for the time involved in preparing and delivering this online presentation.
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