SEE AN ORTHODONTIST EARLY

Contrary to what some parents might think, it’s not too early for orthodontic treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is key, which is why orthodontist DR CATHERINE LEE of Dr Catherine Lee Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation between the ages of five and seven. (Treatment between the ages of five and 10 is known as “Phase One” treatment.) While the jaws are still growing – no later than age 10 for girls and age 12 for boys – interceptive orthodontics can help balance and adjust any differences that might cause issues with teeth and jaw alignment. According to Dr Lee, missing the opportunity to catch and fix potential problems during this active growing period may result in a need for corrective surgery later on, either after the final growth spurt or during adulthood. (So, no, don’t wait for all your daughter’s baby teeth to fall out before treating her cross-bite, and don’t assume your son’s malocclusion can be fixed only after his adult teeth pop in.)

And, no, your child’s misalignment will not self-correct (sorry to burst your bubble). An orthodontist must be consulted in order to plan out an appropriate treatment route, whether it means choosing traditional braces or Invisalign.

While not all children require early treatment, Phase One orthodontic intervention provides opportunities to: improve a child’s appearance and selfesteem; create space for the eruption of new permanent teeth; preserve or gain space for the new teeth; reduce the risk of fracturing a new front tooth that sticks out; lessen or eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems; guide the correct rate of growth of the jaw; regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches (the arch-shaped jaw bone that supports the teeth); and potentially simplify or shorten treatment time for full braces during Phase Two (teenager) treatment. Dr Catherine Lee Orthodontics Level 36 (Penthouse), Income @ Raffles (Office Tower) 16 Collyer Quay 6835 9571 | drcatherineleeorthodontics.com