Of course you want your child's teeth to look their best. Early orthodontics can help achieve this goal. During the first phase of treatment, Patrick will work with your child's jaws and muscles (also known as dental orthopaedics). This treatment will help permanent teeth grow into the right place and the jaws to fit together well. By starting early, you will give your child the greatest chance of the 'best result'.

Why not wait until all the permanent teeth have erupted?

The problem may be one of opportunity missed with respect to growth and development. While patients can be treated at any age, those with available growth may enjoy a substantial advantage. For some patients, early treatment may prevent the need for jaw surgery, extraction of permanent teeth, or fracture of protruded incisors. Early treatment may also aid in psychological development that is appearance-related. Most harmful oral habits respond best to early treatment. A patient referred in the mixed dentition may also benefit from space management and guidance of eruption.

Why does my child need this Treatment?

Genetic or environmental factors may have influenced the development of your child's jaws and muscles. For example your child may suck either fingers or thumb or have a sleeping pattern that has affected the development of the cheeks and jaws.

Isn't it too early to Start Treatment?

No. Between the ages of five and ten, some permanent teeth have already appeared while the bones and muscles are growing rapidly. This is when Patrick can influence their growth to create the best bite. Treatment may be accomplished now that cannot be easily achieved later or as well. In addition, early treatment may prevent bite problems from developing.

What is involved in the Treatment?

Early treatment may last a year or longer. Your child may need to wear some removable appliances during this time to influence the growth of the bone or muscles. In most cases a second stage of the treatment will require fixed braces or 'train tracks' and will only be used as a finishing procedure to 'tidy up'.

The Orthodontic Evaluation

An orthodontic evaluation is necessary to determine the required treatment and to assess your child's profile, jaws, teeth and muscles. Patrick may ask questions about your child's teeth so if you have access to any previous x-rays or models, you should bring them to the appointment. If you are unable to, we will organise these before treatment commences.

What are the benefits of Early Orthodontics?

Early treatment offers many benefits by achieving one or more of the following goals:

• Enhancing- the child's self-esteem by improving the jaw alignment.

• Creating- a more stable long-term result, especially with severe bite problems.

• Shortening- or improving the results of the second phase treatment.

• Allowing- treatment to be given at an age when children are more co-operative.

• Helping- prevent fractures to upper front teeth that protrude and are more easily damaged during a fall or accident.

• Minimising- future jaw surgery.

• Minimising- removal of permanent teeth.