Patient Info

From your first appointment to treatment care, here’s everything you need to know to make your experience smooth and stress-free.

From your first appointment to treatment care – here is everything you need to know to make your experience smooth and stress-free.

Patient Resources

Your Orthodontic Toolkit

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful Answers

Why is early intervention important?

Early treatment can guide proper jaw growth, create room for crowded teeth, and correct harmful habits — helping to reduce the need for more complex treatment later.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends a first assessment around age 7. Early evaluation allows us to monitor development and intervene at the best possible time, if needed. If it is too early to start treatment, we will continue to review your child on a regular basis. These recall appointments are complimentary, but important to ensure the correct timing for orthodontic treatment.

Do you need a referral to see an orthodontist?

You do not need a referral to see an orthodontist, however your dentist may provide a referral letter if there are specific concerns.

What are signs my child may need orthodontic care?

Generally, your child will start losing their baby teeth from around the age of 5 until about age 12. If your child is 7 years of age and you are worried about any of the following signs please contact our office for an appointment.

How can I finish treatment faster?

Consistency is key! Wearing appliances as instructed, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending all scheduled appointments help keep treatment on track.

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely not! Adults make up about 20% of our orthodontic patients. There’s no age limit for improving your smile and oral health.

What if I had braces as a teen and my teeth shifted?

It’s common! Teeth can naturally shift over time. We offer targeted treatments to realign your smile — often much quicker and easier than your first time.

Will my child need braces right away?

Not always. In many cases, early visits are purely observational. We’ll continue to monitor your child’s development and recommend treatment only when it’s beneficial.

What treatments are used for young children?

Common options include expansion plates, space maintainers, and mini-braces to help guide proper growth while the jaw and teeth are still developing.

  • Early or late loss of the baby teeth
  • Difficulty with chewing and/or biting
  • Thumb or finger sucking
  • Protruding teeth
  • Shifting of the jaw when your child bites
  • Crowded front teeth
  • Speech problems
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

A well-aligned smile boosts self-esteem, but it also improves chewing, speaking, and overall dental health. Proper alignment makes oral hygiene easier and reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw issues long-term.

Do you need a referral to see an orthodontist?

You do not need a referral to see an orthodontist, however your dentist may provide a referral letter if there are specific concerns.

Why is early intervention important?

Early treatment can guide proper jaw growth, create room for crowded teeth, and correct harmful habits — helping to reduce the need for more complex treatment later.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends a first assessment around age 7. Early evaluation allows us to monitor development and intervene at the best possible time, if needed. If it is too early to start treatment, we will continue to review your child on a regular basis. These recall appointments are complimentary, but important to ensure the correct timing for orthodontic treatment.

What are signs my child may need orthodontic care?

Generally, your child will start losing their baby teeth from around the age of 5 until about age 12. If your child is 7 years of age and you are worried about any of the following signs please contact our office for an appointment.

  • Early or late loss of the baby teeth
  • Difficulty with chewing and/or biting
  • Thumb or finger sucking
  • Protruding teeth
  • Shifting of the jaw when your child bites
  • Crowded front teeth
  • Speech problems
How can I finish treatment faster?

Consistency is key! Wearing appliances as instructed, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending all scheduled appointments help keep treatment on track.

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely not! Adults make up about 20% of our orthodontic patients. There’s no age limit for improving your smile and oral health.

What if I had braces as a teen and my teeth shifted?

It’s common! Teeth can naturally shift over time. We offer targeted treatments to realign your smile — often much quicker and easier than your first time.

Will my child need braces right away?

Not always. In many cases, early visits are purely observational. We’ll continue to monitor your child’s development and recommend treatment only when it’s beneficial.

What treatments are used for young children?

Common options include expansion plates, space maintainers, and mini-braces to help guide proper growth while the jaw and teeth are still developing.

  • Early or late loss of the baby teeth
  • Difficulty with chewing and/or biting
  • Thumb or finger sucking
  • Protruding teeth
  • Shifting of the jaw when your child bites
  • Crowded front teeth
  • Speech problems
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

A well-aligned smile boosts self-esteem, but it also improves chewing, speaking, and overall dental health. Proper alignment makes oral hygiene easier and reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw issues long-term.

Your Orthodontic Toolkit

Patient Resources

Get In Touch

Have any questions? Reach out to our team!

© 2025 MB Orthodontics

Get In Touch

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out!

© 2025 MB Orthodontics

Have Any Questions?

Get In Touch

© 2025 MB Orthodontics