Treatment for Children

Orthodontists usually improve the bite and smile simultaneously while the child is growing rapidly; this is usually during puberty.

The New Zealand Association of Orthodontists recommend that a child has an orthodontic screening by the age of 9. The American Association of Orthodontists recommend being seen by age of 7. This is the time when the adult teeth are emerging, so the orthodontist can assess any potential problems with front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships.

Mark will be able to determine whether any interceptive treatment is necessary and when the best time is to put braces on. Mark will consider whether treatment at an earlier stage will reduce the need for later treatment or make later treatment more successful. Beginning treatment too early or too late could be more expensive and lengthen treatment time in braces.

Concerns seen with children’s teeth are crossbite, crowding and or spacing with the teeth, and buck teeth. Some other dental problems that a dental professional may pick up are impacted teeth, extra or missing teeth, and bite problems.

Do I need a referral to see Mark?

Generally your school dental therapist or family dentist will recommend you see an orthodontist. However, you may contact us directly without a referral if you have any orthodontic concerns about your teeth.