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Children’s orthodontic plates

Removable plates gently guide jaw and tooth development during your child’s key growth years.

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How it works

Orthodontic plates are removable appliances that gently guide jaw and tooth development during your child’s growing years.

Orthodontic plates come in all shapes and sizes, individually designed with different features to fix developing dental issues. A plate sits in the mouth and uses gentle pressure, sometimes with a small screw you turn at home, a little spring or plastic bite ramps, to encourage teeth and the jaw to develop in the right direction. Because they’re removable, they’re easy to clean and adjust.

Plates are well suited to younger children and can address early bite and alignment issues before they become more involved.

Wearing your plate

Plates only work when they’re worn, so consistency is key.

Wear the plate for as many hours as we recommend, the more it’s worn, the better it works. Some plates are designed to be worn while eating, but always keep it in its case when it’s not in your mouth.

Clean it daily with a soft brush and cool water, and bring it to every appointment so we can check its fit.

Twin Block plate

Twin block plates are commonly used to help move a small lower jaw forward

A Twin block plate is custom designed with upper and lower jaw pieces that when worn, guide growth of a small lower jaw forward.  They are very effective when worn in a growing child or early teen, full time during eating, sleep, both day and night. They are only removed for cleaning.

Guides & resources

A little know-how goes a long way.

Practical guides for families starting early treatment.

Treatment guides

Alternatives to children’s braces

Discover alternatives like clear aligners and ceramic braces. We’ll help you find the option that best fits your child’s needs.

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Treatment guides

Benefits of orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment is more than creating a pretty smile

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Treatment guides

Caring for your child’s smile during treatment

Simple daily habits — brushing, diet and check-ups — that keep treatment on track and your child comfortable.

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Treatment guides

Common questions about children’s braces

Parents’ top concerns answered: comfort, care, food restrictions, and what to expect with metal braces for kids.

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Treatment guides

Jaw expander: Separators

The first step to make your jaw expander is to separate for space

Orthodontic Separators
Treatment guides

What are clear aligners (including Invisalign)

Invisalign is one brand of clear aligner — here’s how aligner treatment works and the options we offer.

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Treatment guides

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The short answer: around age 7. Here’s why early assessment matters, even if treatment can wait.

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Treatment guides

When to see an orthodontist

When to start treatment for children, teenagers, and adults — and why timing matters.

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More resources

Ready to learn more?

Book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist to talk through your options and the right treatment for you.

Request appointmentCall us: 02 6295 2005, starts a phone call

FAQs

Have a question about children’s orthodontic plates?

More FAQs

  • Yes. Plates come in all colours, even multicoloured and sparkles.

  • The first few days with a plate are expected to be the hardest. Something new worn in the mouth will commonly cause increased saliva and alter speech for anything up to one week. If worn as instructed & consistently, any issues will fully resolve after this time. Pain is not a common experience wearing a new orthodontic plate, however easily resolved with a quick appointment with our expert team here at Orthoclinic.