Early Treatment
About Early Orthodontic Treatment
A beautiful smile and good dental health make a difference in your child’s well-being and self-confidence. While braces for teens are more common, occasionally early intervention can pave the way for a better outcome as your child continues to grow and develop.
When should my child have their first orthodontic assessment?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends for your child’s first visit to the orthodontist to take place by age 7. For a jaw growth problem or tooth problem, it might be necessary for this first visit to take place as early as age 5 or 6. Treatment may not start when we first see a young patient but it is important for us to evaluate their growth and dental eruption. We see our child patients for regular complimentary recall examinations every 6 to 12 months. This process helps us to make the best recommendations at the most appropriate time.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?
Some children benefit tremendously from early phase treatment. Receiving early treatment may prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws. However, unless it is truly necessary, at Shoreline we try to avoid early intervention and wait for all of the permanent teeth to erupt and do only one phase of treatment.
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Grinding of teeth, especially at night
- Mouth breathing
- Finger sucking or other oral habits
- Crowding, misplaced or blocked teeth
- Jaw shifting or clicking
- Severe malalignment causing social concerns
Dr. Michelle Kosmowski
Being a part of someone’s orthodontic journey is a dream come true and a position not taken lightly at Shoreline Orthodontics. My own personal orthodontic journey was both fascinating and inspiring and I wish to be able to impart the same experience to the patients here. Learn more
Dr. Megan McFadden
I really had fun going to the orthodontist when I was in braces. Everyone in the office was happy and enjoyed their work. This and the fact that my father was an oral surgeon inspired me to become a dentist and eventually an orthodontist. I like solving puzzles, thinking, planning and organizing all of which I am able to do as an orthodontist. More importantly, I enjoy getting to know people and making them smile. Learn more
Dr. Paul Helpard
I really care about the people who trust their teeth to me. When you come to Shoreline Orthodontics for treatment you are more than a patient, you are part of the family. Your relationship with everyone at Shoreline will extend beyond the office and beyond your time in treatment. Learn more
Dr. Erin Eyer
I have always wanted to be an orthodontist. While visiting my family home a few years ago, my husband came across an old school project of mine from grade three. In it, we were asked to describe what we wanted to do when we grew up. My answer was “I want to be an orthodontist because I like to make people smile”. Years have gone by and it turns out my answer is still the same. What I have learned now is that what we do at Shoreline is so much more than making people smile – it is helping people find their confidence – and that lasts a lifetime. Learn more
Dr. Nadine Williams
I grew up with a father that is a very passionate orthodontist in South Africa and was fascinated by the career from a young age. My interest might have made my braces experience more difficult for him, but I loved every moment of it. While studying for my dental boards in Australia, I shadowed an orthodontist and realized that was where my passion lay. Learn more
Dr. Silas Yeung
Growing up, I needed extensive dental care due to my addiction to candy (and possibly lack of brushing). These experiences helped me recognize the tremendous long-term impact dental professionals can make. After practicing general dentistry for a few years, I decided to become an orthodontist, stemming from my passion for problem-solving and making people smile. Learn more