WE UNDERSTAND YOUR KIDS HEALTH

Orthodontic Assessment

Orthodontics is usually synonymous with braces.
In the past, braces were traditionally put on In the early teens and would try to straighten teeth and jaws with extractions of teeth and brackets and wires.
The general dentist is important in identifying jaw and teeth problems early so that we can provide early treatment which may decrease the intensity or duration of later orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic Assessment

The relationship between a general dentist and a specialist orthodontist is vitally important in managing crowding, jaw discrepancies and other tooth alignment issues.

A good general dentist can spot developmental issues and organise management with the appropriate specialist before it is too late.
Generally speaking, the earlier an orthodontically problem is identified and treated, the less invasive or intensive the treatment may be.
Early intervention may involve ‘functional appliances’ such as plates or expanders, and can be introduced to orthodontic treatment plans before your child is 10 years old. This may eliminate the need for braces entirely, or at least reduce the chance that orthodontic treatment might involve tooth extractions, or even jaw surgery.

At Pymble Dental we align ourselves with well-regarded specialist orthodontists in our area and around Sydney. A specialist orthodontist is a dentist that has done orthodontic training at University for a further 2 years. Except for very simple orthodontic treatment, we believe general dentists should not treat the orthodontic needs of children.

Some issues that a general dentist may identify and refer to an orthodontist for:

  • Crowding

  • Excessive spacing

  • Missing adult teeth

  • Impacted ‘stuck in the bone’ adult teeth

  • Jaw misalignments

  • Crossbites

  • Excessive underbite or overbite

  • Irregular adult tooth shapes

  • Breathing issue

  • Jaw pain issues