From the eruption of their first tooth to their graduation day grin, watching your child’s smile develop is one of the joys of parenthood. However, sometimes concerns arise about crooked teeth, jaw alignment, or bite issues. The good news? Modern orthodontics offers more options than ever before, with treatments designed specifically for different ages and developmental stages.
The Australian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, when there’s typically a good mix of baby and permanent teeth present. This early assessment doesn’t mean immediate treatment is necessary—instead, it establishes a baseline and allows us to monitor your child’s development.
Early Intervention: Building Strong Foundations
For younger kids showing specific concerns, early intervention can address underlying issues before they become more complex. Myofunctional appliances represent an exciting development in this area, focusing on correcting the root causes of orthodontic problems rather than just moving teeth.
These appliances help children learn proper breathing patterns through the nose, correct tongue posture, and develop healthy swallowing habits. By addressing these fundamental functions, we can often guide natural jaw development and create space for permanent teeth to emerge properly aligned.
Young children between the ages of 7 and 10 who mouth breathe, have crowded teeth, or display habits such as thumb sucking may benefit significantly from this type of early treatment. The beauty of myofunctional therapy lies in its preventative nature—we’re working with your child’s natural growth patterns rather than against them.
The Teenage Years: a Range of Treatment Options
Most teens get braces between ages of 10 and 14, when the majority of permanent teeth have erupted. This timing allows for comprehensive treatment that addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns.
For teens and older children, clear aligners offer an excellent alternative to traditional braces. These virtually invisible trays provide effective tooth movement while allowing teenagers to maintain confidence during those critical social years.
Clear aligners work particularly well for teens because they can be removed for eating, sports, and special occasions. The treatment typically requires wearing the aligners for 22 hours daily, making them ideal for responsible teenagers who can manage the compliance requirements.
Signs Your Child May Benefit From Orthodontic Evaluation
Several indicators suggest it may be time to bring your child in for an orthodontic consultation. Crowded or overlapping teeth become apparent as permanent teeth emerge, while gaps between teeth can indicate jaw size discrepancies. Difficulty chewing, speech challenges, or breathing primarily through the mouth also warrant professional assessment.
“Many parents wonder if they should wait until all baby teeth are lost, but early evaluation gives us so many more options,” says Dr Poe Lim (Dentist). “We can often prevent more serious problems from developing by addressing issues while children are still growing. It’s about working with nature rather than against it.”
Early loss of baby teeth, persistent thumb sucking beyond the age of five, or teeth that don’t meet properly when biting are additional signs that early intervention may be beneficial. Remember, some orthodontic issues are easier to address while children are still growing, making early evaluation particularly valuable.
Creating Personalised Treatment Plans
Every child’s orthodontic needs are unique, which is why we take time to understand their specific situation, growth patterns, and family preferences. Some kids benefit from a two-phase approach—early intervention followed by comprehensive treatment later on—while others do best by waiting until all their permanent teeth have emerged.
Treatment length varies considerably, ranging from 3 to 6 months for minor adjustments to 12 to 18 months for more comprehensive cases. We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the process, ensuring you feel confident about the treatment plan.
Ready to Explore Your Child’s Orthodontic Options?
The earlier we can identify potential orthodontic concerns, the more treatment options we have available. Whether your child needs early intervention with myofunctional appliances or you’re considering clear aligners for your teenager, our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process. Contact Chatswood Dental Associates today to schedule a consultation.