What age should I bring my child in for an orthodontic assessment?

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Bringing your child in between the ages of 7-10 will give us a chance to detect any potential abnormalities that can cause complications with future orthodontic treatment. 

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Signs your child might benefit from an orthodontic assessment
 

• Crowded, crooked or misplaced teeth

• Protruding teeth

• Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth

• Underbite or overbite

• Thumb sucking beyond the age of 5

• Difficulty in chewing or biting

• Mouth breathing

 

Early orthodontic treatment

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If your child is too young to go straight into braces treatment, then Dr Tadic may suggest monitoring them over a few years or in some cases she may suggest early orthodontic treatment. Early orthodontic treatment or 'first phase treatment' gives us the chance to guide jaw growth and guide adult teeth into a more favourable position.

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It can involve timely extractions of baby teeth, the placement of partial braces or the placement of an appliance. All of these may assist with tooth eruption, guiding facial growth and preventing future problems from developing.

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Most first phase treatments will still require a second phase of treatment once your child’s growth spurt has slowed down and the adult dentition is present. This second phase usually means braces treatment to achieve the perfect smile and bite.

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Learn more about first phase treatments here.

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Are braces the best option for my child?

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Fixed braces are the best option for young children and teenagers, as opposed to removable plates such as Invisalign, as they generally produce far superior treatment results and also eliminate any temptation to be removed!

It’s more than likely that your child will share their braces experience with lots of their friends and they will have the option of choosing their own coloured rubber bands for a fun and individualized smile.

Metal braces in particular, are the most cost-effective and time-effective treatment option.

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Benefits of orthodontic treatment

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In addition to improved self-confidence, there are also a number of health benefits to straighter teeth - the main reason being straight teeth are easier to clean. Inadequate cleaning is a major factor in tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss.

Orthodontic treatment to improve a bad bite and realign your child’s jaw may also improve sleep disorders, teeth grinding, breathing and chewing difficulties – and even some speech problems.

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How much does treatment cost?

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It’s one of the first things most people want to know – how much does orthodontic treatment actually cost? Without an initial consultation, it’s near impossible to determine the cost of orthodontic treatment. Each case differs from one to the next and there’s no ‘one size fits all’ price. You will need an assessment first.

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Unlike most orthodontic clinics, we do not require upfront payment for treatment. We offer interest-free payment plans and can help organise a payment schedule that will suit you.

If you have private health insurance, you may be entitled to claim a portion of the treatment cost back from your health fund. Our reception team can help you make a claim on the spot using our HICAPS machine.

 

How Footscray Orthodontics can help!

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Orthodontic treatment is an overwhelmingly positive investment in your child’s future health and happiness. A confident smile has the potential to be their best and most memorable asset.

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We have a wonderful, friendly team, led by Dr. Nevenka Tadic, who are here to help you on your braces journey. If you would like to organise an appointment for your child or have any questions about the whole process then give us a call on (03) 9689 8211 and take that first step towards achieving your child's perfect smile!