Specialist early orthodontics in London for growing smiles
At My E20 Dentist in London, our specialist orthodontist offers early intervention treatment for children. This gently guides the growth of young teeth and jaws gently, ensuring their smile develops beautifully into adulthood.
- Lessens future orthodontic needs
- Boost your child's self-esteem
- Preventative approach to long-term oral health
What is interceptive orthodontic treatment?
Interceptive orthodontic treatment is all about spotting and correcting potential bite issues before they become big problems. This early approach, sometimes called early orthodontic or preventative treatment, can be suitable for children aged 4 to 11 whose jawbones are still growing.
By getting a jumpstart on things, our paediatric dentist and specialist orthodontist here at My E20 can help steer that growth in the right direction and prevent misaligned bites. And starting early can mean less intensive treatment when your child is older, giving them a head start on their smile journey.
Does my child need early orthodontics?
At your child's twice-yearly dental visits, our friendly paediatric dentists keep a close eye on their teeth and bite. Checking for any alignment issues is just part of the routine, and if we spot something that needs attention, we'll let you know and talk you through the next steps.
Sometimes, we might just keep an eye on things to see how they progress as your child grows. In some cases, it may be decided that they would benefit from early intervention orthodontics to correct issues such as misaligned teeth or jaws, overcrowding, thumb sucking habits, or early loss of baby teeth. Early intervention can address these concerns while your little one’s jaw is still developing, potentially preventing more severe problems later on.
The advantages of early orthodontics for children
Benefits of interceptive orthodontic treatment can include:
Young smiles, in specialist hands
Interceptive orthodontic treatment at My E20 Dentist is led by Dr Andreea Negulescu, our specialist orthodontist. With her own private specialist practice in Bournemouth and years of dedicated orthodontic experience, she travels to London to bring that same level of care to our younger patients. The reason so many families travel to see us, from Stratford and East Village to Forest Gate, Hackney, Leyton, Wanstead, East Ham, Plaistow and Canary Wharf, is the difference a true specialist makes.
Andreea loves being an Orthodontist. She has her own private specialist practice in Bournemouth called Dorset orthodontics. She travels to London to different private practices providing her specialist knowledge in straightening teeth.
Her education in Dentistry and Orthodontics has provided her with a strong foundation of knowledge and experience. She is a member of several professional associations that provide her with opportunities for continuing education.
By regularly participating in continuing education, she is able to stay current on the latest technology and orthodontic treatments. Her patients deserve the best!
In her words "I couldn't ask for a better job or for a better group of people to be sharing their smiles with me. I look forward to meeting you!".
Frequently asked questions
Most orthodontic associations recommend a first orthodontic check by the age of 7. By that age, enough adult teeth have come through and enough jaw growth has happened for Dr Negulescu to spot any issues that might benefit from early treatment. That doesn't mean treatment starts straight away. Often it's a case of monitoring development over time, so we know exactly when (or if) treatment is needed.
The first visit is relaxed and child-friendly. Dr Negulescu will examine your child's teeth, jaws and bite, take a few photos or a digital scan if needed, and explain what she's seeing in plain English. You'll have a proper conversation about whether treatment is recommended now, whether we should wait and watch, and what the next steps look like. No pressure, no commitment.
It depends on what we find. Some children benefit from a removable appliance to gently widen a narrow upper jaw and make room for adult teeth. Others might use a habit-breaking appliance to help stop thumb sucking. Some cases call for a short course of partial braces to guide a specific tooth into the right position. Dr Negulescu will explain the recommended approach in detail and answer all your questions before anything begins.
It varies depending on what's being corrected. Some treatments are completed in 6 to 12 months. Others involve a shorter active phase followed by monitoring while your child continues to grow. Dr Negulescu will give you a clear timeline at your consultation so you know what to expect.
Sometimes, yes. Early intervention isn't a replacement for later orthodontics, it's a way to make later treatment simpler, shorter and more predictable. For some children, early treatment removes the need for more involved work later on. For others, it sets up a much smoother path through later braces or clear aligners as a teenager.
No. Early orthodontic appliances are designed to be gentle. Your child might feel a little pressure or mild discomfort for a day or two after a new appliance is fitted, particularly when chewing, but it usually settles quickly. Dr Negulescu and the team are calm and patient with younger patients, taking time to make sure your child feels comfortable at every visit.
Some bite and alignment issues can become harder to fix once a child has finished growing. Missing the window for guiding jaw development can mean a longer course of braces later, the possible need for extractions, or in some cases surgical correction in adulthood. That said, not every issue needs early treatment, which is why monitoring and only acting when it's truly beneficial is so important.
The cost depends on the type of treatment recommended for your child. You'll receive a clear, written quote at your consultation with no surprises. Payment plans are available to help spread the cost where useful.
Most children come in every 4 to 8 weeks during active treatment, with appointments typically lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. We schedule appointments to fit around school and work where possible, with evening and Saturday slots available.
