But that line of thought has changed, with early assessment potentially making treatment shorter and easier in the long-term, says Albury-based specialist orthodontist Dr John Brabant.

Dr Brabant said new technology could make a big difference to your child's smile and dental health.

"For parents concerned with their child's developing smile such as crowded teeth, narrow arches, jaw position and even thumb sucking, the ideal time to have a check-up with an orthodontist is six to 10 years of age," he said.

"In the past, it was recommended that children wait to see an orthodontist until they had lost all of their baby teeth. Thankfully, times have changed. Nowadays having an early assessment with a specialist can make treatment shorter and easier in the long term."

Dr Brabant, who is a specialist accredited with the Australian Orthodontic Society, said advances in technology and research into the advantages of early assessment and treatment meant "we can start at an earlier age to develop young jaws and make room for incoming permanent teeth".

He said timely orthodontic treatment for children may:

"Typically in the past, these issues were addressed with traditional appliances like wires and brackets," he said. "Thanks to latest innovation in technology you have more options.

"Children who suck their thumb or have crossbites, protruding front teeth, underbites, overbites, or other alignment problems can be effectively treated with early care. While it is possible to keep even the most crooked teeth clean, having your teeth straightened will make it easier for you to look after them."