PEDIATRIC ORTHODONTIST IN RINGWOOD AND HAWTHORN AU
Growing
Smiles
At Virtuosum Orthodontics, we understand the significance of a child’s smile. It’s not just about aesthetics. Our pediatric orthodontist Ringwood and Hawthorn AU services are all about your young ones’ health and confidence, and laying the foundation for a future of vibrant smiles.
Our team, led by Dr. O’Callaghan, is equipped with a comprehensive array of orthodontic treatments designed to cater to the unique needs of each child. From the revolutionary invisibility of clear aligners like Invisalign and SureAlign to the precision of lingual braces and SureSmile technology, our treatment options are as varied as the individuals we serve.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention
When Should a Child Get an Orthodontic Consultation?
The Australian Society of Orthodontists underscores the value of children receiving an orthodontic evaluation by the ages of 8-10. This crucial step can greatly reduce the complexity of potential treatments later on and helps in spotting and addressing problems early on.
Our approach is simple: we assess early to plan wisely, ensuring your child’s smile is in skilled hands from the very beginning.
BENEFITS
Prevention of Complex Issues
Early assessment and treatment can help avoid the development of more complicated dental problems, potentially reducing the need for extensive orthodontic work in the future.
Simplified Future Treatments
When orthodontic issues are addressed at a young age, future treatments can often be shorter, simpler, and less invasive, making the process easier for your child.
Enhanced Treatment Possibilities
Starting treatment early can sometimes achieve outcomes that might not be possible once growth has been completed. This includes influencing jaw growth, correcting bad oral habits, and guiding the correct positioning of permanent teeth.
Cost Efficiency
Early treatment can also be more cost-effective in the long run by preventing the need for more complex and expensive treatments.
Signs to Watch For
Difficulty Chewing or Biting
If your child struggles or feels discomfort while chewing or biting, it may be a sign of underlying orthodontic issues.
Mouth Breathing
Habitual mouth breathing can affect the way your child’s facial bones develop and can be a sign of obstructed airways.
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
The timing of baby teeth loss can significantly affect the development and alignment of permanent teeth.
Jaws that Shift or Make Sounds
Any noticeable shifting or noise from the jaws when your child eats or talks could indicate a jaw alignment issue.
Frequent Cheek Biting or Mouth Injuries
Accidental biting of the cheeks or the roof of the mouth can suggest misaligned teeth or jaws.
Facial Imbalance
Any asymmetry in the way your child’s face looks or how their jaws line up could be a sign of orthodontic problems.
Your Child's
First Visit
Understanding Your Child's Orthodontic Needs
Comprehensive Evaluation
Our orthodontists will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite, using the latest diagnostic tools to get a clear picture of their orthodontic needs.
Individualized Treatment Discussion
Based on the evaluation, we’ll discuss any identified orthodontic issues and outline potential treatment options. This is a great time to ask questions and understand the objectives of each suggested treatment.
Transparent and Pressure-Free Advice
Treatment Necessity
We believe in transparency. If early treatment is not necessary, we’ll explain why and possibly recommend monitoring your child’s growth and development instead.
Treatment Timeline
Should treatment be advised, we’ll provide an estimated timeline, detailing how long we expect the treatment to take, considering your child’s specific orthodontic condition.
Cost Overview
We’ll also give you a clear overview of the treatment costs, including information about our flexible payment options, to ensure that financial considerations do not stand in the way of your child’s orthodontic care.
Understanding Two-Phased Treatment
The first phase focuses on addressing jaw growth, dental spacing, and bite issues early in a child’s development. This phase aims to correct problems that, if left untreated, could evolve into more serious issues, potentially requiring invasive treatments later on.
Phase One typically begins between the ages of 7 and 10 and lasts about 9 to 18 months, depending on the specific needs of the child. Treatments may include the use of palatal expanders to widen the jaw, braces on selected teeth to guide the correct positioning, or space maintainers to ensure proper spacing for emerging permanent teeth.
This phase aims to position all the permanent teeth in their ideal locations, achieving proper jaw alignment and bite function. It typically begins once most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted.
Phase Two generally starts between the ages of 11 and 13 and can last on average from 12 to 24 months, varying significantly based on the individual’s needs. It often involves using full braces or clear aligners for both upper and lower teeth, focusing on detailed alignment, and ensuring each tooth is in the correct position relative to the others and the jaw.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment and Appliances for Kids
Should your child require treatment, we provide personalized solutions to address various alignment problems, ensuring the best possible care for them.
Here’s an overview of the treatment options and appliances available at our clinic:
- Traditional Metal Braces: Metal braces are the most common type of braces known for their durability and effectiveness. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth, connected by wires, to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. They are best for correcting a wide range of alignment and bite issues, including complex cases.
- Ceramic Braces: Similar in design to metal braces, the brackets of ceramic braces are made from a clear or tooth-coloured ceramic material, making them less noticeable. They work great for older children and teens who are conscious of the appearance of braces but need the effectiveness of traditional braces.
- Invisalign® for Kids: Invisalign consists of a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that are removable and virtually invisible. They are changed every few weeks to move teeth into the correct position gradually. Invisalign can address mild to moderate alignment issues for children who can commit to wearing the aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day.
- SureAlign: SureAlign is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth through a series of custom-made, virtually invisible aligners. These aligners are removable, allowing for easy eating, brushing, and flossing. They are great for correcting mild to moderate alignment issues without the aesthetic impact of traditional braces.
- SureSmile: SureSmile technology uses advanced 3D imaging and robotics to create custom wires for braces, significantly enhancing the precision of tooth movement and potentially reducing treatment time. They offer a more efficient treatment that utilizes traditional braces but with the added benefit of customized, precision planning for faster results.
- Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are placed on the backside of the teeth, making them completely hidden from view. They work in the same way as traditional braces to effectively straighten teeth and correct bite issues. Lingual braces are best for kids who need the corrective power of traditional braces but prefer a completely discreet treatment option.
- Palatal Expanders: Palatal expanders are a device used to widen the upper jaw so that the upper and lower teeth fit together better. It is often used when there is a discrepancy in the width of the upper and lower jaws. Children whose jaws are still growing and have a narrow upper jaw or crowded upper teeth can benefit from them.
- Space Maintainers: If your child loses a baby tooth early through decay or injury, a space maintainer can keep the space open until the permanent tooth erupts. They are best used to prevent teeth from moving into the space intended for another tooth, which can lead to alignment issues.
- Retainers: After braces are removed, retainers are used to hold teeth in their new positions. They can be removable or fixed and are an essential part of the post-treatment phase to prevent teeth from shifting back. All children, after the active phase of their orthodontic treatment, need to wear retainers to ensure the longevity of the results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Not all children need braces. The necessity for braces depends on various factors, including the presence of misalignment, bite issues, and the overall health of the teeth and gums. After a comprehensive evaluation, we’ll discuss whether braces are recommended for your child and the best time to start treatment.
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies widely depending on the individual’s needs. Generally, treatment can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. We’ll provide a more accurate timeline based on your child’s specific situation during your consultation.
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on the type of treatment, the length of time braces are worn, and other individual factors. We offer flexible financing options, including interest-free payment plans and no-deposit options, to help make treatment more affordable.
Following the recommendations for retainer wear is crucial to maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. Teeth tend to shift back to their original positions, so wearing retainers as instructed is essential to prevent relapse.
Typically, we schedule follow-up appointments every 4-6 weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments as necessary. The frequency of these visits can vary depending on the specifics of your child’s treatment plan.
We understand that emergencies can happen. If your child experiences any issues with their braces or appliance, such as a broken bracket or discomfort, contact us immediately. We’re here to address any concerns and ensure your child’s treatment continues smoothly.
While orthodontic treatment involves adjusting the teeth and jaws, discomfort is typically minimal and manageable. Some patients may experience temporary soreness after adjustments, but this can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers or simple home remedies. We’re committed to ensuring your child’s comfort throughout their treatment journey.
Absolutely! We encourage children to continue their sports activities. However, we recommend using a protective mouthguard to safeguard their braces and teeth during play. Custom mouthguards can be provided to fit over braces, offering protection and peace of mind.
Pediatric Orthodontist
Today
Pediatric Orthodontist Ringwood and Hawthorn AU
Your child’s journey towards a perfect smile begins with a simple step: booking your appointment with us. Don’t wait to give your child the gift of a lifetime—a confident, radiant smile.