Parents sometimes think that orthodontic treatment should be delayed until adolescence when all permanent teeth have come in. It is now recognized that some orthodontic problems are most effectively treated if detected early. At OrthoCare Orthodontics, we follow the recommendations outlined by the Australian Society of Orthodontics that every child should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. The aim of early orthodontic treatment is to intercept a developing problem before it becomes more serious and difficult to treat. 

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Why consider early treatment for your child?

When appropriate, early treatment can:

• Reduce treatment time and simplify later treatment

• Create space for crowded, erupting teeth

• Guide erupting teeth into a more favourable position

• Preserve space for unerupted teeth

• Guide jaw growth to improve facial symmetry

• Reduce the likelihood of damage to protruding front teeth

• Correct thumb sucking habits and help improve minor speech problems

• Improve appearance and self-esteem

 

Are there any warning signs to look for in your child that may indicate the need for early treatment?

There are a number of early indicators including:

• Excessive crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth

• Protruding front teeth

• Jaws or teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face

• Delayed tooth eruption or missing teeth

• Early or late loss of baby teeth

• Difficulty chewing or biting food

• Finger or thumb sucking

• Cross bite

• Under bite

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What if your child is already a teen?

The teenage years are the most common period when orthodontic treatment takes place. This is an ideal time because facial and skeletal growth is occurring at an accelerated pace, which can be harnessed to achieve the best possible outcome. It is also optimal because this is the age at which all the permanent teeth come through. Dr Kaplan and her staff know that teenagers lead very busy lives, so they make every effort to ensure that each and every orthodontic visit is efficient, effective, and an enjoyable experience.

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What treatment options are available for your child or teen?

At OrthoCare Orthodontics, a broad range of treatment options are available including:

• Traditional metal braces

• Ceramic (clear) braces

• Invisalign teen