Orthodontic treatment for children
When is the best time to begin orthodontic treatment?
An orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, but there is an optimal time period to begin treatment to ensure the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
What are the benefits of an early orthodontic consultation?
Early evaluation of your child's teeth provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Our team are experienced in assessing children's teeth and jaws to identify any development issues that may be occurring. A proactive approach to your child's orthodontic care guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later on. Orthodontic treatment may not be necessary at a young age, but by bringing your child in for an early consultation, our orthodontists can carefully monitor your child's growth and development and plan treatment when it is needed.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for an orthodontic consultation?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
Is your child a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to orthodontic industry studies, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:
- Crowded teeth are more difficult to brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
- Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
- Crossbites can result in unfavourable growth and uneven tooth wear.
- Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.
Making orthodontic treatment fun
Children don't need to worry about having orthodontic treatment. At Cockburn and Fremantle Orthodontics / Endodontics, our team enjoy working with our younger patients, creating a clinic environment where they feel comfortable and relaxed. We also like to make your child's treatment experience as fun as possible.
If your child requires braces they can individualise them by choosing different coloured brackets and bands. These come in a range of colours so we're sure your child will find their favourite among them.
Now if that doesn't make your child smile, we don't know what will!
Book an early consultation
Give your child the best orthodontic start in life. Book them in for an early consultation with our specialist orthodontists. We'll make sure they feel right at home.
