As a parent, it’s normal to fall in love with your child’s smile. No matter what it looks like, you simply cannot get enough of their sweet (or even goofy) grin. But if their teeth appear to be crooked, misaligned, or gapped, they may need some help to avoid worsening oral health problems. If you’re unsure whether your child might need braces, keep reading to learn what to look for and how an orthodontist can help.
Signs That Can Indicate Braces
Only a licensed orthodontist or dental professional can determine if your child needs braces; however, there are a few signs you can look out for that might indicate it’s time to schedule an appointment:
- Your child is struggling to speak clearly
- Your child suffers from dental decay and gum disease
- Your child is embarrassed by their gapped or crooked teeth
- Your child suffers from tooth breakage and damage
- Your child struggles to bite down or chew
- Your child’s teeth indicate wear and tear
Identifying these problems before they become serious can make it possible for your child to receive early orthodontic intervention – Phase 1 Orthodontics – to improve oral health and bite issues before all permanent teeth are in place.
How Can Braces Help?
After meeting with an orthodontist to discuss your child’s case, they may recommend one of the many different types of braces that are available, such as traditional metal braces, clear aligners, or early orthodontics. Your child’s age and smile status will determine which option will produce the best results.
But are they necessary?
It’s common for many children to need orthodontic treatment at some point, as it is known to:
- Improve speech and confidence
- Produce a more aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Reposition the jaw and bite so they function normally and allow for fluid motion
- Make eating and chewing easier and more comfortable
- Improve oral health by closing gaps that can easily trap bacteria as well as deliver space to crowded teeth
- Reduce enamel wear and tear, keeping teeth stronger so they are less likely to break
How Old Does My Child Need to Be for Braces?
Generally, orthodontists recommend that a child be between the ages of 8 and 14; however, this can vary between patients.
It’s strongly encouraged that you bring your child in for their first orthodontic evaluation at the age of 7. This will ensure a thorough examination is performed to determine the status of your child’s teeth and bite, allowing the orthodontist to develop a plan that will help your child’s smile move into proper alignment.
Orthodontic treatment can be highly effective and a worthwhile investment. If recommended by your child’s orthodontist, trust that the process will lead to a healthier, more beautiful, and fully confident smile.
About the Author
Dr. Nicole Grathwol is an orthodontist who is passionate about teeth. Following in her family’s footsteps, she became fascinated by the field and completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Midwestern University. After earning a Master of Science in Dentistry and an orthodontic certificate from Case Western Reserve University, she and her husband, Dr. Cory, started G&G Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics.
Offering braces and orthodontic solutions to children of all ages, she can identify problems early on and deliver exceptional results at any stage. To find out if your child might need braces, contact us at (630) 778-9500 or visit our website.
