Going to the Orthodontist for Kids: Age Costs and Treatment Options Explained

When someone has beautiful teeth, it’s one of the first things others notice about them. However, to ensure a beautiful and healthy smile in adulthood, early orthodontic assessment and care is sometimes essential.

Parents naturally want to take care of their children’s teeth but are often unsure when to seek orthodontic treatment or what to expect. Understanding the right time and necessary steps for orthodontic care can help set the foundation for lifelong dental health and a confident smile.

What Age Should a Child Go to the Orthodontist?

The first question that most parents ask is when to take their child to an orthodontist. The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first evaluation between the ages of 7 and 10.

At this age, most children will have a mix of adult teeth and baby teeth, which allows the orthodontist to identify potential issues such as misalignment, crowding, or bite problems. They can then assess whether immediate treatment is necessary or whether the child’s teeth should be monitored over time. Early treatment means that developing problems are quickly addressed, leading to less complicated treatment later, better results and healthier, happier smiles!

When to See Orthodontic Specialists Early

Although the general recommendation is that you take your child to see an orthodontist between the ages of 7 and 10, there are also situations where early treatment is necessary to prevent more severe problems from developing. It is not recommended to wait until all the baby teeth are gone because delaying an assessment means preventable problems can be missed. Signs that your child may benefit from early orthodontic assessment and sometimes treatment include:

• Early Loss of Baby Teeth – Early tooth loss (before the age of 4-5) can affect the alignment of adult teeth, but an orthodontist can monitor and guide the new teeth.
• Misaligned Jaw – Early intervention can greatly improve dental health if your child has a misaligned jaw. Signs of a misaligned jaw include difficulty chewing or biting food, a jaw that shifts or makes noise, difficulty speaking or pronouncing words, protruding teeth, or frequent biting of the cheek or roof of the mouth.
• Mouth Breathing – Mouth breathing can impact the development of jaws and teeth, and can also be a sign of other issues that require orthodontic attention.
• Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use – Prolonged use of pacifiers or thumb sucking can affect a child’s jaw and teeth. Early intervention can help to prevent long-term problems.
• Crowded Teeth – If a child’s mouth appears crowded or the teeth do not seem to be coming in properly then you should seek the advice of an orthodontist.

What is a Paediatric Orthodontist?

All Orthodotists are paediatric orthodontists.  Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on diagnosing and treating children’s teeth. They have undergone additional intensive full time training for 3 more years beyond a general dentistry degree to manage the unique needs of growing children who have unique treatment needs. At Camberwell Orthodontic Group, we look after children’s teeth every day and take pride in creating a nurturing environment. Our orthodontists are skilled in making the experience comfortable and effective.

Understanding plates and braces for Kids

Plates and braces are a common orthodontic treatment for children with dental issues such as crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, and bite problems.

Are Braces Worth It for Kids?

Braces are not only about improving the appearance of teeth, they also improve oral health, and function, making them a worthwhile investment in your child’s future. For example, if a deep bite is not corrected properly, it may mean increased risk of enamel wear of the lower front permanent teeth. The idea of braces, especially at an early age, can feel daunting. However, at Camberwell Orthodontic Group, we will provide you with an honest opinion and the best time to start treatment.

Some kids benefit from early treatment when baby teeth are still present with the aim to intercept a more complex problem, whereas some do not and are best treated a little bit later when all the baby teeth have been lost.

Everyone’s problem is always unique and different. Whatever the case may be, a specialist orthodontist is the most knowledgeable clinician in growth and facial development and will therefore be able to provide you with the best and most up to date honest and evidence based information.

Do Orthodontists Put Braces on Baby Teeth?

Typically, if your child is still losing baby teeth, an orthodontist will wait to put traditional braces in. However, in some cases, a two-phase orthodontic treatment may be necessary for a healthy smile. This means in some cases, braces are placed early. Treatment is divided into phases in such cases with the aim to simplify or minimise complexity of certain problems and treatment later on.

• Phase 1 treatment aims to address significant issues that could affect the child’s dental health if not addressed. For example, if a child has a misaligned bite, or a narrow jaw they may need early orthodontic treatment to create more space for permanent teeth and minimise the need for tooth removal later. This can involve a bite corrector, an expander or a space maintainer.
• Phase 2 treatment begins when all baby teeth have fallen out, which usually happens between the ages of 11 and 14. This involves braces treatment to straighten teeth.

What is the Best Age for a Child to Get Braces?

Typically, a child gets braces between the ages of 10 and 14, which is when most adult teeth have come in but the jaw and facial bones are still developing. This makes it the ideal time to wear braces. Some cases are best started earlier, as described above.

How Much Do Braces Cost for Kids in Australia?

The cost of braces in Australia varies widely depending on the type of braces and the complexity of the treatment. On average, orthodontics can cost between AUD $3000 TO AUD $11000. This depends on the specific problem and how long you require treatment for. However, clear aligners and other advanced treatments can sometimes be more expensive. Our team at Camberwell Orthodontic Group will break down all your options so you can make an informed choice. All treatments are usually put on an interest free monthly payment plan. We can also structure your payments to make claiming with your health insurance hassle free.

Are Braces Covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not cover braces. However, some private health insurance plans offer some coverage for orthodontic treatment. Check with your insurance provider to find out what’s covered on your policy. Some health funds pay a lump sum whereas others have an annual limit.

What is the Best Option for Kids Braces?

The best option for a child’s braces depends on their individual needs. An orthodontist can advise you and give you all your options. Common choices include:

• Traditional Metal Braces – Durable and effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues.
• Ceramic Braces – Much less noticeable than metal braces (white in colour) but slightly more fragile.
• Clear Aligners – Removable and virtually invisible, ideal for minor to moderate orthodontic issues.
• Hybrid options – sometimes clear aligners are used for a part of the treatment to minimise time in braces.

Why Choose Camberwell Orthodontic Group for Your Child’s Orthodontic Care?

Proper dental care is essential to your child’s long-term dental health and confidence. At Camberwell Orthodontic Group, we treat everyone with personalised care and attention. We will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your child’s needs and goals.

Orthodontic treatment can initially be overwhelming for children but our approach of empathy, kindness, patience, honesty, and transparency helps to build trust with even our youngest patients, throughout their orthodontic journey.