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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Early Orthodontic Assessments in Selkirk
Some bite and spacing concerns are easier to address while a child is growing. Selkirk parents can book an early orthodontic assessment in Port Dover.
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Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsWatching the bite develop
An early look can guide timing, even if treatment waits.
An early orthodontic assessment checks how a child’s teeth and jaws are developing, often while baby and adult teeth are both present. Many children simply need monitoring, but some concerns, such as crossbites, significant crowding or habits affecting the bite, may be easier to manage when addressed during growth.
Parents in Selkirk who have questions about crooked teeth, spacing or how their child’s teeth meet can bring them to our Port Dover office. The dentist will explain what they see, whether anything needs attention now, and whether a referral to an orthodontist for further assessment would be helpful.
When to check
Early does not necessarily mean early treatment.
Typical age for a first look
Some orthodontic organizations suggest an initial evaluation around age seven, when the first permanent molars and incisors have usually arrived. At this point, the dentist can assess jaw relationships and spacing. The goal is to identify concerns that might benefit from timely intervention, not to start braces in every child.
Signs worth mentioning sooner
Early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, thumb sucking beyond the preschool years, teeth that meet abnormally, a jaw that shifts when closing or crowding that seems severe are reasons to ask sooner. Speech concerns may also be relevant. Note anything you have observed to share at the appointment.
The assessment
The dentist looks at growth and development.
Examining teeth and jaws
The dentist checks how the upper and lower teeth meet, whether there is enough space for adult teeth, the alignment of the jaws and any habits that might influence development. Facial symmetry and the way the child breathes, swallows and speaks may be observed. The findings help decide whether monitoring or further action is appropriate.
Records that may be needed
X-rays may be recommended to see developing teeth and roots that have not yet erupted. Photographs or models can help track changes over time. If a referral to an orthodontist is suggested, these records can be shared. The dentist will explain the purpose of any records and how they contribute to planning.
Possible outcomes
Recommendations depend on what is found.
Monitoring growth
Many children are simply monitored at regular checkups, with the dentist watching how teeth erupt and jaws grow. This allows timely action if a concern develops. Parents can ask what specific changes the dentist is watching for and how often the bite will be reassessed. Monitoring is a valid and common outcome.
Early intervention or referral
Some concerns, such as crossbites or space loss from early tooth loss, may benefit from early treatment, which could include a space maintainer, expander or habit appliance. Others may need a specialist’s opinion. If a referral is suggested, ask what the orthodontist will evaluate and how their recommendations will be coordinated.
Supporting your child
Parents play a key role in development.
Addressing habits
If thumb sucking, pacifier use or tongue thrusting is affecting the bite, ask the dentist for age-appropriate strategies. Positive encouragement usually works better than pressure. Mouth breathing may be worth discussing with your child’s physician. Addressing habits early can sometimes reduce their impact on developing teeth and jaws.
Ongoing dental care
Healthy teeth matter regardless of alignment. Continue regular checkups and cleanings, supervise brushing and limit sugary snacks. If orthodontic treatment begins later, good oral hygiene becomes even more important. Keep the dentist informed of any changes you notice, such as teeth coming in out of position or new chewing difficulties.
Planning your appointment
Booking an early assessment from Selkirk.
Contact our Port Dover office and mention you would like your child’s bite and spacing assessed. Share any concerns or habits you have noticed so the dentist can focus on them.
Bring previous dental records or X-rays and a list of questions about timing, monitoring and possible referral.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Early orthodontic questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Does an early assessment mean my child needs braces?
Not necessarily. Many children only need monitoring at regular checkups. The assessment helps identify whether a particular concern might benefit from timely treatment, or whether it is more sensible to wait until more adult teeth have arrived.
At what age should my child be assessed?
Some guidelines suggest a first orthodontic look around age seven, but you can ask sooner if you notice a concern. The dentist also watches development at routine visits and can recommend a focused assessment whenever something seems worth checking.
Can thumb sucking affect the bite?
Prolonged or intense thumb sucking can influence how the front teeth and jaws develop. The dentist can look for any effects on the bite and suggest gentle, age-appropriate strategies that encourage your child to stop without adding pressure.
Will my child be referred to an orthodontist?
Possibly, if the dentist finds a concern that would benefit from a specialist’s evaluation. They will explain the reason for the referral, what the orthodontist is likely to assess and how existing records can be shared to support that visit.
What is a crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the child bites together. It can affect jaw growth, cause uneven wear or make the jaw shift. The dentist will explain whether early treatment is advisable.
Related guidance for growing smiles
Children’s Dentistry →Space Maintainers →
When a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer may hold room for the adult tooth. Selkirk parents can ask whether one is needed at our Port Dover office.
Thumb Sucking and Oral Habit Guidance →
Thumb sucking, pacifiers and other habits can affect developing teeth. Selkirk parents can get gentle, age-appropriate guidance from our Port Dover dental team.