The right time to act is while they're still growing.
Orthodontic problems are often easier to address during childhood, when the jaws are still developing and more responsive to guidance. Early assessment doesn't always mean early treatment — but it does mean you have the full picture.
How Dr Denize approaches children's orthodontic care.
Initial assessment from age 7
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends a first check by around age 7. At this age, Dr Denize can evaluate jaw proportions, the sequence in which adult teeth are erupting, bite development, and any habits affecting growth — even before all the baby teeth have been lost. Families from Claremont, Nedlands, Dalkeith, and the surrounding western suburbs bring their children in for this assessment regularly.
Active monitoring when treatment isn't yet needed
Many children do not need treatment at their first assessment. In these cases, Dr Denize will recommend a monitoring schedule — typically every 6 to 12 months at our Stirling Highway practice — so that when the optimal window for treatment arrives, nothing is missed. There is no charge for monitoring appointments at Claremont Orthodontics.
Early interceptive treatment (Phase 1)
Some children benefit from early treatment before all the adult teeth have erupted. This might involve palatal expansion to widen a narrow arch and create space, correction of a crossbite that is causing the jaw to shift to one side, or space maintenance after premature loss of a baby tooth. Phase 1 treatment is only recommended when there is a clear clinical reason to intervene early.
Comprehensive Phase 2 treatment
Once most or all of the adult teeth have erupted — usually around ages 11 to 14 — comprehensive orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners begins. Children who have had Phase 1 treatment often require simpler Phase 2 treatment as a result of the groundwork already laid. Dr Denize coordinates the full journey from first check to final retainers.
Problems that are easier to solve during growth.
Some orthodontic problems become more complex to address after growth is complete. Identifying them during the growth window — and knowing when to act — is a core part of specialist orthodontic training. Dr Denize has seen and managed these presentations throughout his 15 years of specialist practice.
Recommended by the Australian Society of Orthodontists. Early assessment means the full picture is available before problems become more complex.
If treatment is not yet needed, monitoring appointments at our Claremont practice are provided at no cost.
Expanders, space maintainers, braces, aligners — the right tool depends on the age, problem, and growth stage.
Frequently asked questions about children's orthodontics.
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic assessment by around age 7. At this age, Dr Denize can evaluate jaw growth, the eruption sequence of adult teeth, and developing bite issues — even if no treatment is needed yet. Early assessment at our Claremont practice does not mean early treatment; it means you have the information you need, when it matters most.
What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 (or early interceptive treatment) refers to orthodontic intervention during the mixed dentition stage, typically between ages 7 and 10, while both baby and adult teeth are present. It might involve expansion to create space for incoming adult teeth, correcting a developing crossbite, or addressing a habit that is affecting jaw growth. Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment — Dr Denize will only recommend it when there is a clear benefit.
What are space maintainers and does my child need one?
If a baby tooth is lost early due to decay or trauma, the surrounding teeth can drift into the space, leaving insufficient room for the adult tooth that should occupy it. A space maintainer is a small fixed or removable appliance that holds that space open. Whether your child needs one depends on which tooth was lost, their age, and how close the adult tooth is to erupting. Dr Denize can assess this at our Claremont practice.
How do I know if my child has a bite problem that needs treatment?
Some bite issues are visible — a lower jaw that juts forward, an open bite where front teeth don't meet, or teeth that cross to the wrong side. Others develop gradually and are less obvious to parents. Signs to watch include difficulty biting or chewing, mouth breathing, speech difficulties, and teeth that appear very crowded or widely spaced. If you notice any of these in your Perth-based child, a consultation with Dr Denize is worthwhile.
What if my child doesn't need treatment yet — what happens at monitoring appointments?
If Dr Denize recommends a monitoring period rather than immediate treatment, your child will attend review appointments at our Claremont practice at set intervals — typically every 6 to 12 months. At each review, jaw growth, tooth eruption, and any developing issues are assessed so that treatment can begin at the optimal time. This is a normal and valuable part of orthodontic care for children.
Time for your child's first orthodontic check?
Book an assessment at our Claremont practice. Dr Denize will evaluate your child's jaw development and give you a clear picture of what, if anything, needs attention.