Early Dental Prevention in Erina, NSW: Protect Your Smile

mother and daughter with bracesMost kids start orthodontic treatment during their teens; however, some may benefit from early treatment. For this reason, we recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around ages 7–9 while their teeth and jaws are still growing and developing. 

A two-phase orthodontic treatment involves an initial phase of early intervention (Phase 1) followed by a comprehensive orthodontic treatment (Phase 2). This method can significantly reduce the length and cost of the orthodontic treatment later in a child’s life.

Phase 1: Early Intervention

Early orthodontic treatment aims to intercept and address problems while the patient is still growing, allowing the normal development of the facial bones and enabling space for adult teeth to erupt. The main goals are:

  • Guide Jaw Growth
  • Correct Harmful Habits
  • Prevent Severe Problems
  • Improve Appearance and Self-Esteem

The most common problems treated at this early stage are narrow jaws, deep bites, underbites, jaw size differences, early loss of baby teeth, impacted teeth, and crossbites. Dr Daniela can also help with the management of harmful oral habits that can affect dental development, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Dr Daniela uses a variety of orthodontic appliances, plates, and clear aligners (Invisalign-First®) and she customises treatment plans based on each child's unique needs. She also works closely with parents during the initial evaluation to ensure they have a clear understanding of the goals and desired outcomes for their child's function, bite, and smile.

Early intervention is not suitable for every child. If your child doesn't need early orthodontic treatment, Dr Daniela will continue to monitor their growth and dental development until the adult teeth have erupted and they're ready for comprehensive orthodontic treatment in the teenage years.

child in the clinic for early dental prevention of cavities

After Early Orthodontic Treatment is Completed  

Early orthodontic treatment is quick. After this initial intervention, Dr Daniela will monitor your child's growth and development until the adult teeth erupt and your child is ready for Phase 2 treatment, which focus on proper teeth alignment and smile improvement.

Phase 2: Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment

This phase usually starts during the teenage years when most or all adult teeth have erupted. It focuses on proper tooth alignment and smile improvement and we align teeth with braces or clear aligners.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase treatment can be an effective approach to orthodontic care, offering significant benefits in reducing future treatment length and costs while enhancing overall dental health and aesthetics.

 It can promote:

  • Shorter Treatment Time: Early intervention can make the comprehensive phase shorter and less complex
  • Cost-Effective: Prevents the need for more extensive and expensive treatment later
  • Better Outcomes: Improves overall dental function and aesthetics, potentially avoiding surgery or extractions
  • Developmental Advantages: Promotes balanced jaw development and better facial symmetry.

Is It Time for Your Child's Orthodontic Evaluation in Erina, NSW?

Dr Daniela is a specialist orthodontist and researcher who proudly serves families on the Central Coast at our Erina clinic. You can request a booking online or call our team to arrange a convenient time for your visit.