Children may need orthodontic treatment (braces) for a number of reasons, including correcting crooked, overlapping, or crowded teeth or the way jaws align and teeth bite together.

Your child's dentist may be the first to notice problems during a dental check-up and recommend that you see an orthodontist (a dentist who specialises in correcting jaw and/or teeth alignment problems).

There is no set age for a child's first orthodontist visit — some kids go when they're 6, some go when they're 10, and some go while they're teens. Even adults may need orthodontic treatment.

Some benefits of wearing braces might include:

• Improved appearance.
• Easier tooth and gum cleaning.
• Prevention of tooth wear.
• Help with speech problems.
• Improved long term oral health.

SA Dental staff can provide information about orthodontic treatment, including eligibility criteria for private or public treatment and costs involved.