Early Orthodontics

Some orthodontic problems that may turn out to be complicated in the future display early signs that can be picked up during early- to mid-primary school.

The most common issues that fall into this category include premature loss of baby teeth, a narrow upper jaw, jaw shifts, thumb sucking, and cross-bites. Early assessment allows for timely management of such issues. This potentially simplifies and shortens treatment time if definitive therapy is performed during adolescence.

At times, this early assessment may not reveal any immediate or serious developing issues in your child. In these cases, our orthodontist will offer complimentary observation of your child’s oral development, and only recommend suitable orthodontic treatment when the time is right.

To find out more about treatment for children, or to reserve an appointment for your child with our orthodontist

Early Orthodontics FAQs

  • If they are assessed as having a developmental problem with their teeth or jaws, the orthodontist will intercept the problem, correct it, or take steps to create a more favourable environment for normal development. Braces are the most reliable method of moving teeth when there are compliance issues at a young age.

  • We recommend a meaningful first assessment when most of the front adult incisors have grown out. This usually happens around the age of 7 or 8 years old, although some children develop teeth even earlier. If you are not sure, we welcome patients of any age, and a referral from a dentist is not required.

  • Although this is possible, treatment is likely needed or desired once all permanent (adult) teeth have grown out during high school years. Some orthodontic problems can only be treated definitively during adolescent growth and not earlier. Sometimes, adult teeth that grow out crooked and crowded after early treatment is finished, which may be a cosmetic concern.

  • All our treatment plans are non-invasive and appliances are simply glued on (if fixed) or clip on (if removable) to their teeth. There are no needles. Should the more complex problems require preparatory minor oral surgery, we will refer them to a specialist pediatric surgeon who works with general anaesthetics.