Myofunctional Orthodontics
How early should we start addressing orthodontic issues?
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Dental Development and Screening
Identifying concerns early
Early orthodontic assessment can begin from as young as 3 years of age. At this stage, we can identify developing concerns and habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and incorrect oral posture that may influence dental and jaw development.
Around the age of 7 is often an ideal time to commence early orthodontic treatment. With a combination of baby and adult teeth present, we can assess the developing bite, dental crowding and jaw relationships, helping us determine whether early intervention may be beneficial.
Our goal is to support healthy dental and facial development, address contributing habits and help establish the foundations for a healthy, confident smile.
Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Guiding dental arch development and alignment
Customised removable orthodontic appliances are an important component of early orthodontic treatment. These appliances are individually selected and designed to suit each child's developing teeth and orthodontic needs.
Depending on the appliance and treatment goals, they may help to:
· Expand a narrow upper palate and create additional space within the dental arch.
· Encourage more favourable dental arch development.
· Improve the alignment of crowded or prominent front teeth.
· Correct crossbite relationships.
Treatment is tailored to each child, with regular monitoring to assess progress and ensure the appliance is working as intended.
By addressing developing concerns early, we aim to create a healthier foundation for the permanent teeth and support more favourable orthodontic development.
Oral Posture and Functional Development
Creating the foundations for healthy growth
Healthy orthodontic development involves more than just straight teeth. The way a child breathes, swallows and positions their tongue and lips can influence the environment in which the teeth and jaws develop.
We place particular emphasis on developing healthy oral habits, including:
· Correct tongue posture, resting gently against the palate.
· Nasal breathing wherever comfortably achievable.
· Lips together comfortably at rest, without strain.
· Appropriate swallowing patterns and oral muscle function.
If a child has difficulty breathing comfortably through their nose, further investigation may be needed. Referral for an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) assessment may be warranted to identify and address any underlying airway or nasal obstruction.
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Through education, simple exercises and functional training, children can learn to develop healthier oral habits.
Tools such as the Myomunchee and Froggy Mouth® appliance may be incorporated where appropriate to support oral muscle function and encourage more favourable oral posture.
Our goal is to support healthy growth and development while establishing habits that contribute to long-term orthodontic stability.