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Orthodontics for children
Orthodontics isn’t just for teens. Many orthodontists agree that early intervention is ideal to correct problems, because some issues become more difficult to correct when the growth of your child’s jaws slow down in the teenage years.
Early treatment as a child can save time and money on future treatments, and help to prevent the need for jaw surgery or tooth extractions.
Benefits of early treatment
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children should have their first orthodontic visit when they are 7 years old. At this time, the back bite has been established and Dr Mike can check for potential orthodontic issues.
When we see children at this early age, we can monitor the growth of their jaws and promote proper tooth alignment to avoid future problems. Even if your child doesn’t need treatment yet, early visits help your child to become comfortable in an orthodontic environment.
Early orthodontic treatment has many benefits, including:
- Detection of issues while they are still minor
- Guiding proper jaw growth
- Proactive approach to proper growth of teeth
- Avoiding potential future problems
- Shortening or simplifying future orthodontic treatments
- Lowering the risk of tooth decay
- Reducing the risk of oral trauma
- Catching and treating teeth grinding
- Correcting harmful oral habits
- Improved ability to chew
- Preventing premature wear on teeth
- Improved overall oral health
Signs your child needs orthodontic treatment
Not all signs of orthodontic need are visible, which is why an assessment with a Specialist Orthodontist is needed. But the following are some more obvious signs that your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment:
- Difficulty chewing
- Continuous mouth breathing
- Speech issues
- Thumb sucking in children older than six years
- Protruding teeth
- Teeth that are high up in the gum area
- Very crowded teeth
- Abnormal bite or top and bottom teeth that don’t seem to fit quite right
- Jaw shifting when opening or closing mouth
Early orthodontic treatment options in North Brisbane
Our interceptive orthodontic treatments are only used if it would benefit your child. If your child does need interceptive treatment, we may use the following:
Invisalign® and Clear Aligners
This early treatment uses a series of clear custom aligners to assist the proper development of your child’s dental arch which creates room for their incoming teeth. They are removable, so your child can clean their teeth with ease.
*This product is not available for purchase by the general public. Always follow the directions for use.
Braces for children
For complex cases, we may utilise partial braces to help begin the alignment process. This can prevent more complicated future treatments and help them eat without problems.
Your child’s first orthodontic visit
Our professional orthodontic team enjoys working with young patients and will ensure that your child feels safe and comfortable during their visit with us. If your child is very young, there are some things that you can do to help make the visit low-stress, such as:
- Talking to your child about what to expect during the visit
- Letting your child bring a toy, book, or game to enjoy while waiting
If your child has special needs, please call ahead and inform us so we can accommodate them properly. We will work gently with your child to teach them the importance of oral hygiene and how to look after their smile.
Book your child’s free consultation today
We can’t wait to welcome you and your child for their complimentary consultation. Book your appointments in Albany Creek or Fortitude Valley to get started.
Book a free consultation