Children

It is highly recommended that a child’s first visit to the orthodontist should occur around 7 years of age.   Careful attention is paid to certain habits such as finger sucking and mouth breathing which may adversely affect dental and facial development.  If a developmental problem is detected at an early age, interceptive treatment may prevent more serious problems from occurring in the future, thereby eliminating or simplifying future treatment. 

 

Early warning signs which require particular attention may include:

• Early loss of baby teeth

• Teeth crowding

• Protruding front teeth

• Underbite

• Poor bite relationship

• Biting or chewing difficulties

• Facial asymmetry

• Habits such as thumb or finger sucking

• Mouth-breathing/snoring

 

 

While most children do not require treatment at this early age, we recommend 6 to 12 monthly reviews to monitor facial and dental development.