Cosmetic Dentistry
Orthodontic Treatment for Children
Creating straighter, healthier, and more confident smiles.
Straighten your teeth with our orthodontic team in Kellyville
At Kellyville Smiles, we understand the importance of starting orthodontic care early to support healthy jaw development, correct bite function, and ensure confident smiles for life. Orthodontic treatment for children can begin at different stages, depending on genetics, oral habits, treatment needs, and both functional and aesthetic requirements.
Stages of Orthodontic Treatment
When Should Your Child Start Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic care for children can begin at different ages depending on their jaw growth, tooth development, and individual needs. At Kellyville Smiles, we take a staged approach to ensure the right treatment at the right time. From early preventive care in the primary (baby teeth) stage, through interceptive orthodontics in the mixed-dentition years, and into full correction with permanent teeth, each stage plays a vital role in guiding your child’s smile and long-term oral health.
Early Preventive Orthodontics (Ages 5–7)
This stage of treatment is targeted at children with primary (baby) teeth. At this age, we carefully evaluate:
- Jaw and tooth development
- Bite alignment
- Oral habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting
- Breathing and airway health, which can impact dentofacial growth
If early interceptive therapy is required, some common treatments include:
- Behaviour modification for oral habits
- Space maintenance with fixed appliances
- Orthopaedic changes with removable or fixed appliances
- Referral to an ENT specialist for airway, tonsil, or adenoid issues
By addressing these concerns early, children’s orthodontics can help prevent long-term dental and jaw problems.
Interceptive Orthodontics (Ages 7–9)
Between the ages of 7–9, we focus on jaw growth and relationships, as well as space for the eruption of permanent teeth – especially the canines.
At this stage, treatment may include:
- Orthopaedic functional appliances to guide jaw development (such as palatal expanders, protraction face masks, MARA, Herbst appliance, or twin blocks)
- Early correction with phase-one fixed braces or clear aligners
- Guidance of permanent tooth eruption using braces
This is an excellent stage for interceptive orthodontics, as children’s tissues are highly responsive to orthodontic and orthopaedic forces.
Correction and Rehabilitation (Ages 10 and Over)
When most or all permanent teeth are present, we assess how the teeth and jaws function together. Special attention is given to the jaw joint (TMJ), facial profile, and overall bite.
Early treatment during this stage helps prevent severe crowding that might otherwise require tooth extractions in the future. If left untreated, children may experience:
- Jaw joint (TMJ) issues
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Clicking, tension headaches, migraines, and even neck pain
Typical treatments at this stage include:
- Straightening teeth with conventional orthodontics
- Aligning jaws and joints for healthy function
- Positioning teeth for improved aesthetics and a balanced profile
Children are often self-conscious at this age, which is why modern appliances – including clear braces and Invisalign Teen – are designed to be small, discreet, and comfortable.
Why Choose us?
Why Choose Kellyville Smiles?
At Kellyville Smiles, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care in a warm, welcoming environment. Here’s why families across North Kellyville, Kellyville, and surrounding suburbs choose us:
your local dental practice
Damon System Braces for Children
At Kellyville Smiles, we use the Damon System of braces, a passive self-ligating technology proven to improve appearance faster and more comfortably than traditional braces. While braces in the past often took 3–5 years, treatment with Damon braces typically takes only 12–18 months.
Benefits of the Damon Braces System:
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Faster treatment time
- Fewer in-office adjustments
- Reduced pressure, resulting in less discomfort
For children who prefer a discreet option, Damon Clear braces are also available. Older children and teens may also be suitable for Invisalign clear aligners – a virtually invisible solution that uses smooth, comfortable trays for faster, irritation-free treatment.
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Start Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey Today
At Kellyville Smiles, we are passionate about giving children the best start in life with healthy, confident smiles. Whether your child needs early orthodontic care, Damon braces, or Invisalign for teens, our team is here to help.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have Any Questions?
What types of orthodontic treatment do you offer for children?
We provide a full range of orthodontic services, including Damon metal braces, Damon Clear ceramic braces, Invisalign Teen, and functional appliances for early intervention (such as palatal expanders, protraction face masks, MARA, and Herbst appliances).
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment length depends on the severity of the issue and the shifts required. Minor corrections may take only a few months, while more complex cases can take 2–3 years. On average, braces with the Damon System take 12–18 months.
Is early orthodontic treatment really necessary?
Yes. Early intervention can help guide jaw growth, prevent crowding, and reduce the need for extractions or jaw surgery later in life. It can also prevent long-term TMJ issues and improve airway health.
Will my child need to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes. Retainers are essential to maintain results and prevent relapse. Depending on the case, your child may wear a removable orthodontic retainer or an Invisalign retainer.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.