Children’s first dental check up should be carried out by their first birthday while the baby teeth are erupting. During a dental check up for children we can advise on brushing which may help prevent problems such as early tooth decay. All deciduous teeth should be present in the mouth by the age of 2.5 years.

All children should have an orthodontic check up before they are seven years old. Although most children will not need orthodontic treatment, if it is necessary, it is usually advisable to start treatment early or to refer to an orthodontist when they are older.

Early treatment gives the dentist the best chance to:

• guide permanent teeth into a more favourable position
• guide jaw growth
• correct harmful oral habits like thumb sucking, grinding or clenching
• reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• improve the way lips meet
• correct poorly aligned teeth, which may lead to future dental problems
• improve appearance, confidence and self-esteem.