The role of prevention and simple interceptive measures in reducing the need for orthodontic treatment.

The purpose of the interceptive orthodontic treatment is to eliminate or reduce the need for treatment in the permanent dentition. The major advantage of such a treatment may also be that it is technically simple and relatively cheap, compared to comprehensive treatment with full fixed appliances. The need for interceptive measures to avoid adverse occlusal and dental consequences, which are effects of the early loss of primary molars and nonnutritive sucking habits, is discussed. The need for prevention and early intervention in patients with anterior open bites, posterior functional crossbites and signs of ectopic erupting canines is also discussed.