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Orthodontic FAQs | Common Treatments | Early Prevention | For Children | For Teens | For Adults | Life with Braces | Brushing and Flossing | Retainer Instructions | Emergency Care

For Children

Orthodontics for Children

While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age seven.

By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for the orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery.

Early treatment allows your orthodontist to:

  • Correct and guide the growth of your child's jaw to help the permanent teeth come in straight
  • Regulate the width of the upper and lower arches
  • Create more space for crowded teeth
  • Avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions later in life
  • Correct thumb-sucking and help improve minor speech problems

For parents, it's not always easy to know if your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Here are a few things to look for that may mean your child needs to see an orthodontist:

  • Early or late loss of baby teeth
  • A hard time chewing or biting food
  • Mouth breathing
  • Finger or thumb sucking
  • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
  • Jaws that pop or make sounds when opening and closing
  • Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
  • Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face
  • Crowded front teeth around age seven or eight

Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment now will give your child a healthy, beautiful smile for the future.

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It has been over a year since my braces were taken off, and I am still getting compliments on my teeth, EVERYDAY! I was likely one of his older clients, and my only regret is that I did not follow through with braces years ago! I have had 5 friends start braces since mine came off, and all have no regrets. Dr. Mulgrew and his staff are exceptional in all aspects!
The best crew to help you through the journey of braces! You couldn't ask for a more skilled, professional and friendly team!!
My experience with Dr. Smith was nothing less than amazing. She is a caring, gentle orthodontist who takes time to explain everything ensuring my family and myself were comfortable with the procedures I had. Dr. Smith is uplifting, humorous, kind and patient.
Dr. Mulgrew is a very professional, knowledgeable, honest and understanding doctor. His team provides exceptional service and are very accommodating. A big thanks to you Dr. Mulgrew and your amazing staff. I would highly recommend this Okanagan Orthodontics to anyone!
As a parent I have to say I love Dr Angie Smith. I have two daughters who both need braces, which can be a scary thing for a parent. The staff work with you to come up with a plan that works for your life. Both my girls love going to their appointments they feel relaxed and comfortable there. I highly recommend Okanagan Orthodontics!!!