Children’s Orthodontics Berwick, Melbourne

Children’s orthodontics is early treatment which can help to simplify or even prevent future orthodontic treatment. 

When should my child go to the orthodontist?

When your child still has a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, usually around ages 7-10, it is the perfect time to think about early treatment.

Children’s orthodontics supports the growth and development of your child’s jaw and bite. If your child requires orthodontic treatment, we can begin early enough to ensure that they develop a strong, healthy, and straight smile for later in life. 

What does early treatment involve?

Children’s orthodontics addresses the development of the teeth and jaw. We first look out for signs of future problems that could cause damage to current or future teeth. Early treatment could be as simple as monitoring this process, or it could be more complex by integrating extractions or aligners. 

What treatments might be recommended?

For early intervention in children’s orthodontics, we aim to be proactive for developing issues. Often, this can include extracting teeth to create more space for adult teeth, placement of braces, and orthodontic appliances. 

All these different treatments help support either facial and jaw growth, tooth eruption, prevent premature loss of teeth, or help in preventing future orthodontic problems from occurring.

Some treatments commonly used for children’s orthodontics

Partial braces

This involves the placement of braces on a particular section on the upper or lower teeth to correct misaligned teeth. Early correction of certain misalignments can reduce the length time of future orthodontic treatment, negate extractions of permanent teeth or even prevent the need for full braces later on. 

Headgear

Headgear is used to correct jaw or tooth misalignment for children who are still growing and still have some baby teeth. Headgear is only worn at nighttime. This can help to reduce or eliminate overbite, underbite, or excessive overjet. 

Lower or upper lingual arch 

Lingual arches are used as space maintainers where baby teeth might need to be removed early or to relieve overcrowding. This appliance is a wire following the dental arch which is cemented to the first permanent molars and prevents them from moving forward. 

Maxillary expander

Maxillary expanders are used to treat narrow or small upper arches. This device helps to expand the arch as the child still grows and develops. 

Children’s Orthodontics at Berwick Orthodontic Specialists in Melbourne 

It is recommended that you bring your children in for early treatment as this will determine whether or not orthodontic intervention is necessary. Early treatment can be highly effective in establishing a healthy and functioning smile for the future.  

We are a family focused practice and want to give your child the best and most functional smile they could have. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to discuss any questions or make an appointment.