One of the most important aspects of childhood development is good oral health. Healthy baby teeth enable children to eat and chew solid foods efficiently, are essential in the development of their jawbone to ensure there is enough space for adult teeth to come through in their correct position and prevent crowding or spaces between teeth from occurring. Baby teeth also help with sounding words correctly as children learn to talk.

Early stage treatment

Many children develop orthodontic problems at a young age. Known as interceptive orthodontics, early assessment and treatment can reduce the need for complex orthodontic treatment during your child’s teen years. It’s most beneficial to have your child assessed early and this should take place between the ages of six and seven when your child’s jaw is still growing. At this time, a decision can be made on the benefits of starting treatment early.

Treatment at this early stage may range from simply maintaining space for erupting adult teeth, although it most commonly involves the use of functional or growth appliances. These appliances can be expansion appliances, removable plates or partial braces. Children are very responsive to treatment at this age as their bones are still developing and are quite soft. They are usually quite motivated and can easily be taught about the benefits of the treatment in a fun and exciting manner.

Orthodontics for adolescent children usually begins after all of the adult teeth have erupted. This occurs between the ages of eleven and thirteen. Following a detailed assessment, we will discuss the required treatment with you and your child. Treatment at this stage may vary; most commonly it will involve appliance therapy or fixed braces. This is obviously dependant on your child’s individual needs and we would discuss this with your prior to treatment commencing.

Treatment time can range from six to eighteen months, during which time we will carefully monitor you child’s progress and oral care habits. Remember that regular visits will be required to adjust and maintain the appliances and or fixed braces.

Dr Theo Spyrakis has been treating patients of all ages since 1997 after completing the American based P.O.S orthodontic program.

“ The confidence in our patients with their new smile is simply irreplaceable! “

If you would like to speak to one of our team members, simply call 9567 4151 ; we would love to hear from you.