7 & Up Orthodontic Check-UpMilltown
Early orthodontic check-ups for Milltown families
Milltown is a short journey out to our clinic on Ballinteer Road, and the first orthodontic appointment for a child should happen earlier than most parents expect. Around age seven is the point at which a developing bite can be read properly, because the first adult molars and incisors are usually through by then.
That does not mean fitting braces at seven. Most children assessed at that age need nothing at all for several years, and we will tell you so rather than finding something to treat.
What the appointment is actually for
A handful of problems are considerably easier to deal with while a child is still growing and much harder afterwards. A crossbite making the lower jaw shift to one side. An upper jaw too narrow for the lower. Front teeth protruding far enough to be at real risk in a fall. Adult teeth failing to come through, or arriving in the wrong place.
Catching those at seven is not the same as treating them at seven. It is about knowing they are there and choosing the right moment, which is often years later.
You do not need a referral from your dentist, though we are glad to have one. There is more on our early check-up page, or book an appointment.
Parking & Public Transport
We are at 11 The Gables, Ballinteer Road, Dundrum, Dublin 16. The Luas Green Line runs from Milltown through Windy Arbour to Dundrum and Balally, and the 14 bus serves both areas.
For drivers, the Dundrum Town Centre car park is a short distance away. Directions and parking are on our location and parking page.
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The Process
This appointment is really about talking through your goals with one of our orthodontists. We'll likely also go over your dental and medical history, take a look at your teeth and jaw, and depending on what's needed, that might mean X-rays or impressions of your teeth to make models.
From there, the orthodontist looks over the X-rays, photos, and examination findings and puts together a plan specific to you — how your teeth need to move to get where they should be. You'll come away with an idea of how long treatment will take, what it'll cost, and whether any prep work needs to happen first.
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That might mean a dental cleaning, sorting out any cavities or other issues first, or in some cases extracting a tooth or two to make room for things to shift. Once that's all sorted, you're ready to move on to the next phase.
The orthodontist attaches small bumps to your teeth that help the aligners grip properly, then hands over your first set. We'll check the fit there and then, and walk you through everything you need to know to get started.
You'll come in for progress checks fairly regularly — usually every 8 to 10 weeks — where the orthodontist checks how the aligners are fitting and lets you know if it's time to order the next set.
Taking everything off is usually the easy part — the attachments and wires come out, any leftover adhesive gets cleaned away, and it's over quickly with little to no discomfort.
Once your braces come off, a retainer is what keeps your teeth from drifting back. Most patients wear one full time for a while, then switch to nights only — that's what keeps everything holding in place long-term. Read more here.
Read what our patients say about us
"I went to so many dentists about my bite problem only to be dismissed. Dr Adriana and her team gave me a plan, I followed it, and two and a half years later I can smile, eat and bite properly."
"Two of my daughters had braces fitted by the lovely Dr. Katherine Condren. I would highly recommend her services, she was so good with my daughters, we are extremely happy with the service received and they both have beautiful smiles now."
"My bonded retainer came loose and several other practices turned me away. Dundrum Orthodontics saw me straight away and had it fixed within minutes."
"Dr Joseph O’Connor is such a skilled orthodontist. His kindness and attention to detail is outstanding. He takes the time to explain everything and makes you feel very comfortable. Could not recommend him more."
"I got Invisalign here in my forties and could not be happier. My daughter had braces with them a few years ago, and my sister brought her daughter on my recommendation. Exceptional service and amazing results."
"Joseph is a kind, compassionate and skilled orthodontist. He has a beautiful patient manner and his attention to detail is second to none. Highly recommend."
"Coming to the end of my braces and I couldn't be happier. The whole team are friendly and professional, and they take their time to make sure the end result is exactly what you want."
"I had a great experience with Dr O’Connor and his team. Booking was simple and they were very friendly & efficient throughout. Would highly recommended."
"My son got his braces off this morning and I am delighted with the result. Over two years, any worries we had were sorted and every question answered, always with a friendly and professional approach."
"Amazing service, highly professional. Dr O'Connor was really kind and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!"
"Dr O'Connor is a brilliant orthodontist, the consultation was thorough and he's easy to talk to."
"Extremely happy with the outcome after braces, great attention to detail! Highly recommend."
"A long and difficult process was made easy by their care and attention. The attention to detail and professionalism was second to none."
"The staff are extremely skilled as well as friendly and easy to talk to. I am very happy with my results and with how the whole process was handled."
Book a Consultation
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best.
FAQs
Around age seven. That is when the first adult molars and incisors are usually through, which is the earliest point a developing bite can be read properly.
It does not mean braces at seven. Most children assessed at that age need nothing for several years, and we say so rather than finding something to treat. What it catches are the problems that are far easier to deal with while a child is still growing: a crossbite making the jaw shift, a narrow upper jaw, or front teeth protruding enough to be at risk in a fall.
You do not need a referral. More on our early check-up page.
Begin Your Journey
Thinking about it? Book your first consultation and come see us — we'll take it from there.
