Early (intercepting) orthodontic treatment in Milan addresses growth and dental issues in children typically between ages 8 and 11, with the goal of guiding development and simplifying — or avoiding — more complex treatment in adolescence. At Clinica Crocetta the evaluation is complimentary and provided in English on request.
What ‘early’ or ‘intercepting’ treatment means
Treatment performed during active growth (typically ages 8–11) to address issues that, if ignored, may become harder to fix later. Common indications: posterior crossbite, severe maxillary deficiency, anterior crossbite, severe crowding, traumatic deep bite, persistent thumb-sucking effects.
Common devices used
Palatal expander (rapid maxillary expansion) to widen the upper jaw and resolve crossbites; functional appliances to guide mandibular growth; partial fixed appliances on specific teeth; sometimes early aligners. Choice depends on the diagnosis.
Why timing matters
During growth, bones can be guided with relatively low forces and short treatment times. After growth completes, the same correction may require comprehensive orthodontics or, in some cases, orthognathic surgery. Acting during the growth window is often the conservative choice.
Realistic expectations
Early treatment is not a substitute for later comprehensive orthodontics in every case: some children will still need braces or Invisalign Teen later, but with a simpler and shorter second phase. The clinician’s job is to honestly distinguish cases where early treatment changes the trajectory from cases where waiting is fine.
For expat families relocating to Milan
Evaluations conducted in English, written treatment plans with expected timing and cost, and coordination with previous treatment abroad when relevant. Records (X-rays, photos, prior plans) from a previous orthodontist are welcome and avoid duplicating exams.
What international and Italian patients say about Children Orthodontics
Reviews translated from Italian. Original verified reviews available on our Google Business profile (4.9★ · 287 reviews).
Laura B. · Invisalign Teen · 16 months · ★★★★★
My daughter did Invisalign Teen with Dr. Lombardo. Outstanding result and she was thrilled not to have to wear metal braces. Always clear communication, instalment payments, punctual check-ups every 6 weeks. For us it’s the best orthodontic practice in Milan.
Rosa Marchi · Invisalign Full + extraction · ★★★★★
The studio and Dr. Piasente were recommended to me by a doctor friend. From the very first moment I noticed enormous skill and broad knowledge across the board, both from the gnathological and the orthodontic point of view. He has hands like a fairy — superb delicacy and care. I should add I had a phobia of the dentist and had to have a tooth extracted, and in just two appointments I felt deep peace of mind under his clearly expert eyes. I FELT NOTHING! I want to say it for everyone who, like me, has this strong fear (often unjustified). I also did a full Invisalign treatment — they are official providers — and I have to say I had a great experience. They explained that it is not an automatic treatment as one might think, but it is the doctor who modifies the position of each single tooth. We agreed I’ll come in for a check-up every 6 months — he will definitely be my dentist forever. Thank you so much, Dr. Piasente, you are my hero.
Stefano Morato · Long-term multidisciplinary care · ★★★★★
I have known the Crocetta studio for 2 years now, and in this period I have had the chance to get to know Dr. Piasente, his collaborators and his assistants well, and to appreciate their professionalism and ethical correctness. Each operator has their own area of expertise and all of them work as a team to ensure the patient the highest quality of care. Personally I have been to various studios and this is undoubtedly the one that gave me the greatest peace of mind, not to mention the convenience of the location, the cleanliness and the extreme punctuality of appointments. Furthermore, it was the only studio in Milan to propose an alternative treatment to orthodontics for my gnathological problem — even though the doctor specialises in invisible Invisalign orthodontics, which would have also resolved my reluctance to wear visible braces — once again proving that here the patient comes first.
Frequently asked questions
What age is best for early orthodontic treatment?
Typically 8–11 years, during active growth — the orthodontist confirms after evaluation.
Will my child still need braces afterwards?
Often yes, but with a shorter and simpler second phase; sometimes no further treatment is needed.
Does the palatal expander hurt?
It causes mild pressure for a few days after activation, usually well tolerated.
Are records from our previous orthodontist abroad accepted?
Yes, they are welcome and help avoid duplicate exams.
Is early orthodontic treatment tax-deductible?
Yes for Italian tax residents, 19% as healthcare expense with regular invoice.
Looking for an English-speaking dentist in Milan?
The first visit at Clinica Crocetta is complimentary and includes diagnosis, digital scan and a personalised treatment plan in a single appointment. Learn more on our dedicated page: Centro Invisalign Milano.
? Book on WhatsApp · +39 373 853 9107 — Largo della Crocetta 1, Milan · Metro M3 Crocetta
Information for educational purposes, not a substitute for a clinical examination. Clinica Crocetta, Largo della Crocetta 1, Milan.