Early Orthodontic Treatment: Why Starting Young Matters

As parents, you want to give your children the best possible start in life. This includes ensuring their oral health and teeth are in top shape while their smiles shine bright. 

Now, orthodontic care at a young age may seem like an extreme solution. However, the truth is that orthodontic intervention at a young age can make a world of difference. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that’s all about correcting misaligned teeth and jaws to improve function and the appearance of teeth. 

According to the Australian Society of Orthodontists, the best age to start early orthodontic treatment is between the ages of 7 and 10. Why, you ask? It’s because your child’s facial structure is still developing at this age, making it the ideal time to kickstart orthodontic care. 

When is Early Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Here are some warning signs to look out for: 

• Early loss of teeth 
• Habits such as thumb sucking and breathing through the mouth 
• Crowded or protruding teeth 
• Speech difficulties 
• Biting and chewing difficulties 
• Teeth that don’t meet properly when biting

Identifying developing dental problems early on while the jaws and teeth are easier to manipulate will help our dentists make changes efficiently and effectively. This will also reduce the risk of severe dental complications down the road and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles (given that teeth are properly cared for). 

If you notice any of the abovementioned signs, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our friendly dentists at Port Melbourne Dental right away! 

What are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Starting orthodontic treatment early can provide many benefits for your child. The most common benefits include: 

Prevents Long-Term Dental Problems 

We all know that prevention is always better than cure. If dental problems like overcrowding, crooked teeth and an incorrect bite are tackled early on, it can help prevent severe problems like tooth decay, infections and tooth loss. This way, you can also reduce the need for costly, complicated and extensive dental treatments in the future. 

Corrects Speech Problems 

A bad or incorrect bite can cause speech impediments, like lisping, which can really affect your child’s confidence. Early orthodontic intervention will help improve the bite and the clarity of your child’s speech. 

Improves Confidence 

The confidence that comes with having a straight and healthy smile is unlike any other. If your child is happy with their smile, they are more likely to smile, laugh and interact comfortably with their friends. This will be a big boost for their childhood development journey. 

Improves Digestion

Did you know that orthodontic problems can affect digestion? It’s true! Misaligned teeth or a crooked bite can make it harder for your child to break down and swallow their food. Orthodontic treatment can aid digestion by straightening teeth and aligning jaws, making chewing and swallowing easy again. 

Early Orthodontic Solutions for Your Child

At Port Melbourne Dental, we’ve got you covered with a range of orthodontic treatments, including: 

• Braces: Conventional braces are the go-to orthodontic treatment. They use metal brackets, wires and bands to guide your teeth into the desired position. 
• Damon: We also offer Damon System Braces for a more discreet and comfortable solution. They involve the use of smaller and clear brackets. 
• Oral Hygiene & Habits: Our dentists will help you catch any detrimental habits that could potentially cause dental problems for your child. We will guide you and your child through proper oral hygiene practices to help them maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Remember, orthodontic care is not just about aesthetics. So, if you think your child might benefit from early orthodontic care, don’t hesitate to contact us. At PMD, we are committed to helping your little ones achieve a straight and healthy smile they love.