It’s almost the end of the year, and you may be wondering if you should take your child to the orthodontist in Kitchener, ON, or wait until the new year. When it comes to whether or not braces will be beneficial for a child, there are several factors that come into play. 

In this post, we talk about some signs and symptoms that indicate a child may need braces in the future.

Signs a Child May Need Dental Braces or Orthodontic Procedures

• Tooth misalignment. Crowded, overlapping, crooked, or gapped teeth can make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing a child’s risk of dental problems. These issues can also result in lisping, difficulties in pronouncing sounds related to the letters “S” and “Z,” and mouth breathing. 

• Jaw misalignment. Correcting jaw irregularities may also require orthodontic procedures. These include an overbite, which is when the top teeth are too far in front of the bottom teeth, and an underbite, which is the opposite of an overbite. On the other hand, an open bite is when there's space between the top and bottom teeth even when the mouth is closed or at rest.

• Premature tooth loss. Baby teeth fall out on their own, but sometimes, this occurs much earlier than expected. Premature loss can cause the surrounding teeth to occupy the empty spaces, which are supposedly reserved for the adult teeth. In some cases, baby teeth can also fall out too late. Both situations can result in tooth misalignment issues. 

• Mouth breathing. The ideal way to breathe is through the nose, so the air is filtered before it gets into the body. However, mouth breathing can occur if the tonsils are enlarged, there are nasal obstructions, or there are jaw and mouth deformities. Persistent breathing through the mouth can impact the shape of the teeth and face, which can require orthodontic solutions.

• Chewing and biting difficulties. If your child has difficulties chewing, biting, or eating, this can be indicative of a tooth or jaw alignment problem. Diagnosing the issue can be tough with only a visual inspection. You’ll need the expertise of an orthodontist to identify irregularities.

• Tooth grinding. Children can also grind or clench their teeth during sleep. Without proper treatment, this can damage the teeth and worsen tooth misalignment issues. Pay attention as well to popping or clicking jaws, as this can also be a sign that the teeth and jaw aren’t in their ideal position. 

• Mouth habits. Children can develop habits that affect how their teeth and jaws align. Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and bottle feeding are common among children, but they usually stop on their own between the ages of 2 and 4. If these habits persist, a child may need orthodontic treatments, such as braces.

Ultimately, the best way to find out whether or not your child needs braces is by consulting with an orthodontist, who can assess their mouth and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan.

The Importance of Early Orthodontic Evaluation 

Orthodontic issues may be easier to correct when diagnosed and treated early. It’s a case-by-case situation, as some children may benefit from treatment while there are still baby teeth left, while others may need time to wait until all their adult teeth have erupted.

For early treatments, a child may be provided with appliances to save space for the adult teeth or modify the size and shape of the jaw. A palatal expander is one example, and it’s used to widen the upper jaw. Tooth extraction may also be necessary to make room for permanent teeth. 

Not only can orthodontic treatment make your child's smile look better, but it can also help prevent problems in the future, such as compromised dental health, pain or discomfort in their teeth, and trouble chewing, speaking, or taking care of their teeth.

Your orthodontist is the best person to assess your child’s teeth and determine if they need braces. They'll be able to advise you on which type of braces are most suitable for your child as well as how long the process may take.  

With the right care and attention, your child can maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come. We’re here to guide and support you. 

If you have any further concerns that you want to discuss with an orthodontist in Kitchener, ON, leave us a message at Orthodontic Smile Studio, and we’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible. In the meantime, you may follow our blogs for more information on orthodontic procedures.

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