EPISODE · Jan 26, 2026 · 28 MIN
The OPTISMILE Podcast 92 - The Ugly Duckling Phase (Ages 6 to 12): Mixed Dentition
from eRadio SA
In this episode of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, Eon Engelbrecht and Dr Clifford Yudelman discuss the critical "Ugly Duckling" phase of dental development (ages 6 to 12). This period of "mixed dentition"-where children have both baby and permanent teeth-can look alarming to parents, often featuring large, yellow-looking front teeth and gaps. Dr Yudelman explains why this is a normal, healthy stage and why you shouldn't panic.However, this is also a vital window for prevention. The discussion covers why age seven is the practical time for an orthodontic screening, the importance of fissure sealants for new molars, and how to handle dental emergencies like knocked-out teeth on the sports field. Dr Yudelman also shares advice on managing "shark teeth" (permanent teeth growing behind baby teeth) and navigating the sugar traps of the school tuck shop. Tune in to learn how monitoring your child’s teeth during these primary school years can save you a fortune in future dental work.ResourcesBook an appointment: OptiSmile.co.zaEducational Articles: OptiSmile Learning HubContact OptiSmile: 021 434 3818 or WhatsApp 071 140 0066Follow Dr Clifford Yudelman: LinkedInContact the Best dentist in Cape TownBook your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmileFollow OptiSmile on FacebookDisclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.
What this episode covers
In this episode of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, Eon Engelbrecht and Dr Clifford Yudelman discuss the critical "Ugly Duckling" phase of dental development (ages 6 to 12). This period of "mixed dentition"-where children have both baby and permanent teeth-can look alarming to parents, often featuring large, yellow-looking front teeth and gaps. Dr Yudelman explains why this is a normal, healthy stage and why you shouldn't panic.However, this is also a vital window for prevention. The discussion covers why age seven is the practical time for an orthodontic screening, the importance of fissure sealants for new molars, and how to handle dental emergencies like knocked-out teeth on the sports field. Dr Yudelman also shares advice on managing "shark teeth" (permanent teeth growing behind baby teeth) and navigating the sugar traps of the school tuck shop. Tune in to learn how monitoring your child’s teeth during these primary school years can save you a fortune in future dental work.ResourcesBook an appointment: OptiSmile.co.zaEducational Articles: OptiSmile Learning HubContact OptiSmile: 021 434 3818 or WhatsApp 071 140 0066Follow Dr Clifford Yudelman: LinkedInContact the Best dentist in Cape TownBook your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmileFollow OptiSmile on FacebookDisclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.
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The OPTISMILE Podcast 92 - The Ugly Duckling Phase (Ages 6 to 12): Mixed Dentition
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