Does My Child Need Braces?

Many parents question whether their children need braces.

This is a fair question. Many parents question whether their children need braces. Sometimes the answer to this query is obvious. However, this isn’t true all of the time. This article will discuss the indications of a child requiring orthodontal care.

Signs a child may need braces

There are several signs that a child may need braces. Corrective orthodontal procedures can help straighten misaligned or crooked teeth. A trained orthodontal professional can decide whether braces are required. Some signs that a child needs corrective care are listed below:

Overbite

An overbite refers to the top teeth overlapping the bottom teeth. If a child bites down and their bottom teeth are no longer visible, this is considered an overbite. A slight overbite may not require braces, but a severe one could cause dental issues.

Underbite

This is the opposite of an overbite, where the bottom teeth protrude. Children with an underbite have a greater risk of dental damage due to falls where the bottom teeth could be impacted. Braces could help improve their appearance and protect the teeth from damage.

Large gaps between teeth

Diastema, or gaps between teeth, could be a reason for braces. These gaps can cause food particles to become lodged and could result in tooth decay and discomfort. Braces can help move teeth to their proper position, making food particles easier to remove with brushing.

Crooked teeth

Crooked teeth are generally the biggest concern for parents. Possible causes could be insufficient space for adult teeth to emerge or issues with the jaw structure.

Speech issues

Children with speech issues, most noticeably a lisp or difficulty saying certain types of words, could need attention to their teeth alignment. Misaligned teeth in children can lead to difficulty producing certain sounds.

Difficulty eating or biting

A child with difficulty eating or biting may benefit from orthodontal corrective treatment. Misaligned teeth could be the culprit. A child who bites their tongue or cheek while chewing is a sign that they may benefit from braces.

Jaw or mouth pain

Children who complain of mouth or jaw pain could have dental issues that aren’t obvious. Therefore, the caregiver should schedule an appointment with an orthodontist to find the root cause of the pain.

Schedule an appointment with a pediatric orthodontist

Only a pediatric orthodontist can recommend whether a child will benefit from braces. Children with any of the ailments discussed in this article should seek the advice of a trained professional. Many dental issues, such as crooked teeth or significant gaps between teeth, can be remedied with braces.

If you need a gentle, caring dental team, please call Jennifer Fineberg’s office at (623) 362-2550. We’ll give you the very best dental care we can!