The Australian Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist at the age of seven. Children at this age have a mixture of permanent and primary teeth. Due to their significant growth potential at this early age, we are able to assist by modifying their growth and correcting many tooth and jaw problems early.
This early intervention often allows for normal growth and development and certainly simplifies any later comprehensive orthodontic treatment. In many cases it reduces the likelihood of permanent tooth extractions and the need for surgery.
Other advantages to early orthodontic intervention are reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, improving airway patency with improved sleeping and breathing patterns, early diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and improved facial balancre and symmetry, reducing the likelihood of ‘teasing’ and ‘low self esteem’ in their pre-adolescent years.
