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When to see an orthodontist

When to start treatment for children, teenagers, and adults — and why timing matters.

guide-when-to-see

Overview

Orthodontic treatment occurs at specific stages of your dental journey.

In growing children, baby teeth will first start falling out at the age of 6. As the adult incisor first start erupting, our orthodontists will be able to identify any developing problems. Developing problems can include delayed eruption of adult teeth, jaw size problems, or dental arch crowding. Early intervention of such issues can eliminate the need for treatment later or significantly reduce the complexity of further treatment.

In young teenagers, aged 12+, all baby teeth have exfoliated and adult teeth have erupted including the back molars. This is commonly a time when brace treatment commences. Additionally, this age group are usually growing rapidly, aiding tooth and jaw movement with braces.

In adults, a dentist will advise whether orthodontic treatment should be considered. Your orthodontist will guide you through pros/cons & considerations for adult orthodontic treatment, including gum health, strength of teeth and the state of jawbone.


When to see an orthodontist?

If you are thinking about getting an orthodontic treatment, then you probably have one very important question. When do I need to see an orthodontist in Canberra? There are several ways that this question can be answered. Any time that you have a question about your bite and/or the way that your teeth are aligned, you should see one of our Orthoclinic orthodontists in Canberra.

If you are having problems speaking, chewing and biting due to misplaced, crowded or protruding teeth, then you will need to consult with one of the leading Canberra orthodontists at Orthoclinic. Orthodontists in Canberra such as our Orthoclinic specialists have the training and skills needed to diagnose and treat the problem.

Conditions

There are other conditions that warrant a trip to an orthodontist in Canberra. Teeth grinding, mouth breathing and inability to close your mouth comfortably are some of the conditions that may require orthodontic treatment. Additionally, Orthoclinic Canberra orthodontists can correct tooth abnormalities that are caused by facial asymmetry or imbalance.

Children are advised to see an orthodontist by the age of seven. At this age, the orthodontist can determine whether a child has enough room in his or her mouth to accommodate the permanent teeth. And if treatment is required, it can be easier to correct certain tooth problems early. Such early treatment can reduce the complexity of any treatment required later or eliminate the need for further treatment.


Who can benefit?

While most patients treated at Orthoclinic are children and teens aged 7 to 16 years old, some adults also seek treatment with us.

Well-aligned teeth not only improve appearance, but they can also improve oral health. It is easier to clean the teeth when they are lined up properly. This can reduce one’s chances of developing gum disease and cavities.

Anyone can benefit from orthodontic treatment, regardless of his or her age. There are a rate of treatment options suiting each age group including coloured metal braces, ceramic braces and clear aligners.

Ready to learn more?

Book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist to talk through your options and the right treatment for you.

FAQs

Have a question about when to see an orthodontist?

  • Most children benefit from an assessment around age 7–8, when we can see how the jaw is developing.