Nearly 75% of all children will need orthodontic treatment at some point in their lives, meaning that wearing braces is an incredibly common experience. You may first wonder if your child will need braces when their adult teeth start coming in. Thankfully, advances in the field have made orthodontic treatments more comfortable and effective than they ever have been before. Here are a few signs to help you determine whether your child needs braces or not.
Why Would My Child Need Braces?
Some early habits can make someone more likely to need braces later on. A child who breathes through their mouth, sucks their thumb, or has poor oral hygiene is more likely to develop bite issues later in life. Orthodontic treatments provide patients with many benefits that significantly improve the quality of their lives. A few of these include:
- Improved oral health: Poorly aligned teeth can be harder to clean and easier to injure, making them more vulnerable to infections like tooth decay. Realigning a smile with braces can help it stay healthy for decades to come.
- Improved self-image: Teenagers often deal with self-image issues. Having straighter teeth can help them have the confidence to smile brightly and make that great first impression.
- Improved speaking ability: Misaligned teeth can make it harder to form words properly, possibly resulting in slurred words and embarrassing situations.
How Can I Tell if My Child Needs Braces?
Only an orthodontic professional can make the final call as to whether your child is a good candidate for braces or not, and in many cases, they may advise that the child should be allowed to develop further before receiving braces. However, consider making an appointment with an orthodontist if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- The top teeth overlap the bottom teeth.
- The bottom teeth overlap the top teeth.
- The top teeth protrude over the bottom teeth.
- The front teeth on the front and bottom do not touch.
- There is too much space between the teeth.
- The teeth are crooked.
- The child has trouble chewing or biting.
- The child has difficulty speaking.
- The child has pain in the mouth or jaw.
While wearing braces can be quite a journey, they can deliver amazing results for your child’s oral health while teaching them good self-care habits. Consulting with an orthodontist can determine if your child would benefit from braces.
About the Author
Dr. Stephanie Weng earned her dental degree from Case Western Reserve University and was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society for being in the top of her class upon graduation. She then studied orthodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Her office in McKinney, TX offers traditional braces, Invisalign, and orthodontic emergency services. To schedule an appointment for your child, contact her office online or dial (469) 526-4040.