Interceptive and Airways Ortho at Mint Dental Loft

Interceptive and Airways Ortho at Mint Dental Loft in Altadena, CA is an early, conservative approach to orthodontics that considers teeth, jaws, and airway together. By working with your child’s natural growth, we can often improve breathing and sleep, create space for adult teeth to erupt more smoothly, and make any future orthodontic treatment faster and more comfortable.

How interceptive and airways orthodontics helps your child

Instead of waiting until all the adult teeth are in, we begin monitoring and gently guiding growth when your child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. We look at the shape of the jaws, how the bite fits, and whether your child is mouth-breathing, snoring, or struggling with sleep. With expanders, limited braces, clear aligners, or habit-correcting appliances, we can encourage nasal breathing, widen narrow arches, and support healthier facial development.

• Guides jaw and facial growth Encourages the upper and lower jaws to grow in harmony for a more balanced profile. Great for: narrow arches, small jaws, or underbites
• Creates space for incoming teeth Helps reduce severe crowding and can shorten or simplify future braces.
• Supports breathing and sleep Can improve airflow, decrease mouth-breathing, and ease snoring or restless sleep.
• Protects confidence and function A more even smile can boost self-esteem and improve chewing and speech.

Signs your child may need Interceptive and Airways Ortho

Every child grows at a different pace, but certain patterns can signal that early orthodontic and airway-focused care might be helpful. If you see any of the signs below, an evaluation at Mint Dental Loft can give you clear answers and a plan.

• Frequent mouth-breathing, open-mouth posture, or dry, chapped lips
• Snoring, noisy or restless sleep, or bedwetting beyond early years
• Crowded, overlapping, or blocked-out teeth in the front
• Crossbite, underbite, open bite, or difficulty biting into foods
• Thumb or finger sucking, tongue-thrusting, or long-term pacifier use
• Daytime fatigue, irritability, or trouble focusing that may relate to poor sleep

What to expect during your child’s visit

We start with a relaxed, child-friendly visit where we listen to your concerns and review your child’s health and sleep history. Then we gently examine the teeth, bite, facial growth, and breathing patterns. When appropriate, we may use low-dose digital X-rays, photos, or airway-focused imaging to better understand jaw position and airway space.

If treatment is recommended, we will explain all options in straightforward language and outline a step-by-step plan. In some cases, we may collaborate with your child’s pediatrician, ENT, or myofunctional therapist to give your child the most comprehensive care. We’ll also discuss timing, expected length of treatment, and how to keep visits smooth and stress-free.

Costs, insurance, and making treatment fit your budget

Early orthodontic care is an investment in your child’s long-term health and confidence. Fees vary depending on your child’s needs and the type of appliances used. Before you decide on treatment, we will review all costs, check any orthodontic benefits through your insurance, and answer your financial questions clearly. Our team can also discuss payment options or financing to help make care more comfortable for your family budget.

Ready to schedule an airway-focused orthodontic exam?

If you’re wondering whether Interceptive and Airways Ortho could help your child sleep, breathe, or smile better, the next step is a personalized evaluation. Call us at (626) 610-4413 or reach out to Mint Dental Loft in Altadena, CA to schedule a visit. We’ll take the time to answer your questions, explain our findings, and help you decide on the best path forward for your child.