Early Intervention Orthodontics for Children in Melbourne

girl at school with braces One of our greatest passions at TMJ Therapy Centre is helping children enjoy healthy, functional smiles. We do that through interceptive orthodontics, also known as early orthodontic treatment. This treatment is designed for kids between the ages of 6 and 11. It targets the early growth stages, helping to guide jaw and tooth development. Addressing issues early on can prevent more severe problems from developing later in life.

Why Choose Early Orthodontics?

The main advantage of starting orthodontic care early is that it reduces the need for more complex treatments, such as extractions or surgeries, later. Early intervention is not just about aesthetics; it can help guide your child’s jaw and teeth into proper alignment, setting the stage for a healthier smile.

What Are the Benefits?

Creates space for permanent teeth
Can prevent the need for tooth extractions
Corrects jaw growth for better facial symmetry
Reduces the risk of impacted teeth
Corrects issues like thumb-sucking and improper swallowing

What to Expect

Interceptive orthodontics uses various appliances, such as removable expansion plates, to guide the growth of the jaw and ensure that permanent teeth have enough room. These appliances are designed to be comfortable and are customised for each child. In addition to improving alignment, they can also correct harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking and mouth breathing.

Why Not Wait?

You might wonder if it’s better to wait until all of your child’s permanent teeth are in before seeking orthodontic care. However, waiting too long can limit treatment options. Severe underbites or overbites, for instance, become harder to correct as your child’s face and jaw finish developing. Early intervention allows our dentists to use your child’s natural growth to make orthodontic problems easier to manage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child need braces later?

While early orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce the need for braces, it doesn’t always eliminate it. Most kids will still require a second phase of treatment once their permanent teeth have fully erupted, typically between ages 12 and 14. This second phase may involve Invisalign® or traditional braces to perfect the final bite. In some cases, however, early intervention may resolve the orthodontic issue completely.

What causes my child’s teeth to be crowded?

Mouth breathing, thumb-sucking, blocked airways, improper tongue posture, enlarged tonsils, and chronic allergies often cause crowding. Interceptive orthodontics can address these issues early on, creating more room for adult teeth.

My child grinds their teeth – is that normal?

Teeth grinding during sleep may indicate Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), a form of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) that affects children’s health. This can cause worn-down teeth, increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and cheek biting. Additionally, narrower dental arches and lack of space for adult teeth may be noticed.

Teeth grinding often suggests a need for early intervention orthodontic treatment to expand the upper arch. If the issue is ignored, it can lead to significant tooth wear and reduced jaw height.

What do expansion plates look like?

Each expansion plate is custom-made for your child’s unique orthodontic needs. At our practice, we make the experience fun and engaging for kids. Your child can personalise their expansion plate with colours, sparkles, emojis, or even pictures of their favourite pets. This personal touch helps make the treatment more enjoyable while ensuring their teeth and jaw develop properly.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’ve noticed crowding, misaligned teeth, or other early signs of orthodontic issues in your child, contact our team today to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.

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