As a parent or caregiver, you want nothing but the best for your child or charge. We understand and are eager to help.
Early orthodontic evaluations in children are a vital part of overall dental health, which includes regular checkups, at-home care and cavity prevention.
Early orthodontic evaluations and intervention when things are amiss may contribute to:
- Long-term dental health
- Future smile aesthetics
- More productive brushing and flossing
- Jaw joint support and comfort
- A comfortable smile
- Smile confidence for your little one
- Oral development—chewing, speaking and swallowing
Through early intervention (or interceptive orthodontics) and treatment, your child’s Bondi Junction dentist can help prevent more complex and costly treatments later. Additionally, treatment may mean your child spends less time in braces later or may even forego them altogether.
When to Bring Your Child to the Dentist for an Assessment
We recommend evaluations before age seven. Around that time, we gain a better understanding of how teeth align on the jaw and whether any issues need to be addressed.
Of course, we monitor your child’s development from their very first visit, typically starting around their first birthday or the eruption of their first tooth.
If you notice any issues before the age of seven, please alert your dentist immediately. Key issues to watch for include early loss of baby teeth, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. Some childhood rites of passage, such as prolonged sucking or incorrect chewing, can hasten oral development issues.
About Early Orthodontic Evaluations in Children
Common interceptive orthodontic options for children may include, but are not limited to:
- Space Maintainer: When baby teeth are lost too soon, adult teeth may erupt incorrectly without this intervention.
- Palatal Expanders: If the jaw cannot hold a full set of adult teeth without overlap or crowding, your child’s dentist may recommend expanders.
- Habit Appliances: Habit appliances help curb unhealthy sucking or mouthing habits that can harm oral development.
It’s important to remember that orthodontics is about more than aesthetics. With the correct intervention, such as appliances or braces, your child can achieve a comfortable and aligned smile that promotes better oral health, both now and in the long term.
Also, when teeth are straight, they are easier to brush and floss effectively because there are fewer nooks for bacteria to collect.
Early Orthodontics for Children in Bondi Junction: Is It Time for Your Child’s Assessment?
We care about little smiles!
To get started or if you have questions about interceptive orthodontics, we encourage you to contact a friendly dental team member on (02) 9389 2570.
We proudly accept all health funds.