Orthodontics sound complicated, but the term malocclusion just means that your child’s teeth or jaws are not in the right place. For example, the teeth may be crowded together or may stick out too far in front.

Early orthodontic assessment involves having your child’s bite reviewed when an abnormality is first noticed. Early interception can help minimise some problems. Of course, all cases are different and Dr Wong or Dr Leivesley will be able to give you personal advice at your first assessment.

Commencing orthodontic treatment early and while your child is still growing and has some of their baby teeth left, may increase the number of options for treatment. Before commencing early orthodontic treatment however, your child must satisfy a number of criteria.

• It is important to weigh up whether early treatment will reduce the need for later treatment, or make later treatment more successful. For some people there will be major advantages in starting treatment early, for others there will be no advantage in starting treatment before all of the adult teeth have come through.

• We take into consideration that teeth that are crowded or out of position are often difficult to clean. This makes them more likely to decay, and the gums more likely to become inflamed.

It is important that problems are assessed early, so that opportunities are not lost and well-considered decisions can be made for your children. We will point out and discuss with you all of the problems and options on your child’s first appointment.

Take the time to browse through our new website, and contact us soon to make a booking to see Dr Sam Wong or Dr William Leivesley for any of our children’s orthodontic services.