Early orthodontic screening for children is able to recognise and correct potential problems before they become serious. Along with the Australian Society of Orthodontists, Norwest Orthodontics specialist Dr. Shimanto Purkayastha, the only Australasian Orthodontic Board Certified Specialist Orthodontist in the Norwest area, recommends children have an orthodontic screening by seven to eight years of age.
The reason this age is important is that by this age, many baby teeth have been lost and several permanent teeth in most children have erupted. This early screening allows Dr. Purkayastha to monitor or detect any orthodontic concerns or conditions.
During this screening Dr. Purkayastha can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth which is important because some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are found early. Correcting problems such as cross bites, buck teeth and overbites early can avoid tooth extractions or dental surgeries later in life.
Even if an orthodontic problem is detected in children, Dr. Purkayastha may not recommend immediate treatment. However, in some cases, if it is identified that a problem could benefit from early treatment, committing to early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated for your child.
To determine whether your child is suitable for early orthodontic treatment, please contact Norwest Orthodontics for an initial consultation with our Specialist Orthodontist to assess your child’s teeth and recommend the ideal approach.