When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

One of an orthodontist’s main goals is to provide each child with the most appropriate treatment - at the most appropriate time. Unfortunately, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to the "best" age for orthodontic treatment. Our local Canberra orthodontist Dr Robert Wei recommends that kids aged 7-10 get a check-up to see if they need or will need braces or other orthodontic treatment. You don't actually need a referral from your general dentist to see an orthodontist.

Some of the following signs are things that parents can look out for to see if your child might benefit from early orthodontic treatment:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth

• Teeth that don’t meet properly when your child bites together

• Biting of cheeks or the roof of the mouth

• Protruding and/or overcrowded teeth

• Difficulties with biting or chewing

• Thumb sucking

• A family history of impacted or missing teeth

An early orthodontic check-up with Dr Wei can help identify and address problems while they are easily corrected for your child. With early orthodontic treatment, we can often simplify the complexity of any future orthodontic treatment. If Dr Wei recommends early treatment for your child, we aim to complete this treatment in a 9-12 month timeframe.

Schedule an early assessment today to set your child on the path to a lifetime of beautiful smiles.