As a parent, something that’s probably constantly on your mind is how you can make sure your child’s dental health is in great shape, and orthodontics plays a role in this! Although it’s not always obvious when orthodontic treatment may be needed. But by understanding when it’s necessary and helping your child kick off their journey, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of benefits. Here are some signs your child is due for orthodontic evaluation—and maybe braces soon after.
1. They Have Obviously Crowded Teeth
Crowding is one of the most common reasons that children end up needing braces, so if you notice your child’s teeth overlap, twist, protrude, or don’t have enough room to come in properly, orthodontic treatment may be needed to guide them.
2. Eating and Speaking Clearly Is Challenging
If your child avoids certain foods, has trouble biting into snacks, or complains about discomfort while chewing, it might point to an underlying issue with their bite’s alignment. Similarly, if pronouncing certain words or making certain sounds is difficult or impossible, it could be related to the teeth and their position.
3. Noticeable Gaps Between the Teeth
Spacing issues, whether from missing teeth, smaller-than-normal teeth, or natural gaps, can sometimes interfere with bite development or cause shifting. If your child has wide gaps in their smile, it’s worth having their orthodontist take a look, as the issue can easily be helped with braces.
4. Mouth Breathing or Thumb Sucking
Habits like prolonged thumb sucking or regular mouth breathing can sometimes affect jaw growth and tooth positioning, leading to bite problems. Bruxism, also called teeth grinding, can sometimes have a similar negative impact.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an evaluation by age 7. During this visit, they’ll examine their teeth and jaw alignment to recommend treatment options based on their findings. Remember, ensuring that your child receives the orthodontic treatment they need helps to guarantee they grow into a happy and functional smile.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Christina Helfrich, Dr. Moe Beydoun, and Dr. Hyun Jeong Lee, our team proudly serves the needs of families in New Britain and the surrounding area. We offer a variety of pediatric dental and orthodontic services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or need to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or by phone for assistance. Telephone: (860) 224-2419.