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🎃 SCARILY GOOD SMILES START HERE! 🎃 〰️
5 signs your child may need orthodontic treatment
Some bite and tooth problems are easier to manage when they're picked up early. Here's what to look out for as your child grows.
SIGN 1
Crowded or overlapping teeth
Teeth that look squashed together, twisted, or sit in front of or behind one another.
Why it matters: crowded teeth can be harder to brush and floss well making it more likely to develop cavities and gum problems
SIGN 2
Front teeth that stick out
The top front teeth sit well forward of the bottom teeth, or the lips don't close comfortably over them.
Why it matters: prominent front teeth can be more likely to be chipped or injured during play or sport.
SIGN 3
Baby teeth lost very early or very late
Losing baby teeth much earlier or later than other children, or adult teeth coming through in an unusual position.
Why it matters: baby teeth help hold space for the adult teeth underneath.
SIGN 4
Teeth that don’t meet properly e.g. underbite, crossbite, open bite
Bottom teeth in front of the top teeth (underbite), a gap between the front teeth when biting together (open bite) or a jaw that shifts to one side when closing (crossbite)
Why it matters: some bite problems relate to how the jaws are growing, so earlier assessment can be helpful as simple appliances like braces and expander plates may avoid more complex treatment later
SIGN 5
Mouth breathing or thumb sucking
Ongoing thumb or finger sucking after around age 5, or regularly breathing through the mouth may be a sign of airway or jaw growth issues
Why it matters: long-term habits can influence how the teeth and jaws develop.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) and Orthodontics Australia, recommend that a child has their first orthodontic assessment between the ages of 7 and 10
Noticed one of these signs?
Book an assessment with a specialist orthodontist to find out what's going on and what, if anything, is needed. Please complete the form below and our receptionist will be in touch.
Alternatively, to book directly, please call our reception on (02) 9129 0009