Interceptive Orthodontics
Early, limited orthodontic treatment initiated during the mixed dentition to correct developing problems and reduce the need for more complex intervention later.
Full Definition
Interceptive orthodontics (sometimes called Phase I orthodontics) encompasses procedures performed while primary and permanent teeth coexist in the mouth, typically in children aged 6–10 years. The goal is to intercept developing malocclusions — such as posterior crossbites, ectopic eruptions, or severe arch length discrepancies — before they become entrenched skeletal problems. Editors must distinguish it from preventive orthodontics (which avoids malocclusion before it arises) and from comprehensive orthodontics (which corrects established malocclusion in the permanent dentition). The term 'interceptive' should not be hyphenated as a noun.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from 'preventive orthodontics' (avoidance) and 'comprehensive orthodontics' (full correction). No hyphen required.
In Context
- "Interceptive orthodontics was initiated at age eight to address the developing posterior crossbite." — Paediatric orthodontic referral
- "The article conflated 'preventive orthodontics' with 'interceptive orthodontics'; the editor inserted a clarifying footnote." — Manuscript review