Every parent loves their child’s smile, regardless of whether their teeth are perfectly aligned or a bit crooked. However, as children grow and lose their baby teeth, crooked or misaligned teeth permanent teeth can sometimes lead to self-consciousness or potential oral health issues within children. This often prompts parents to consider when the optimal time for braces for kids might be. Braces are seen as a rite of passage for many children, as they are a symbol of growing up and caring for one’s dental health. Yet, determining the ideal age for orthodontic treatment isn’t always straightforward, as it typically depends on various factors that are unique to each child’s dental development.
The truth is the age at which a child may need braces depends on a variety of factors that are specific and unique to their own dental development. This means that the right age for braces can differ significantly from one child to another. Consulting with a pediatric orthodontist near you is the most reliable way to determine when orthodontic treatment is right for your child. However, there are some signs parents can watch for that may hint that your child is approaching the age where braces might be necessary. Keeping an eye on these indicators that orthodontic treatment may be in your child’s future can help parents gauge when it might be time to seek professional advice.
Common Signs Your Child May Need Braces
There are several signs that you can look out for that may indicate that your child needs braces. Being aware of these indicators can help you decide when it’s time to seek advice from a pediatric orthodontist about your child’s dental health.
Gaps Between Teeth
One noticeable sign that your child may need braces is if they begin to develop gaps between their teeth. While it’s common for some gaps to close on their own over time as permanent teeth come in, gaps that don’t appear to be closing, even after permanent teeth are fully erupted can be a warning sign of underlying dental issues that might require orthodontic treatment. Keeping an eye on these gaps and consulting with a pediatric orthodontist can help determine if braces are necessary to close them and create proper alignment and spacing of your child’s teeth.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking and pacifier as a child ages can significantly affect the way your child’s teeth develop. These habits that are typically done as a means to self soothe can lead to jaw pain and misalignment of the teeth and jaws. If your child has been a thumbsucker, parents should keep in mind that later on their child may dental issues requiring braces. Being aware of this potential problem can help you take early action and consult with a pediatric orthodontist to determine if children’s braces are necessary, and the best course of treatment for your child’s needs.
Crowded Teeth
Another common sign that your child may need braces is crowded teeth. When your child’s permanent teeth start to grow, there might not be enough room for them to align properly within the mouth and jaw. This can cause the teeth to turn sideways or overlap each other, which could potentially lead to a lisp or discomfort when chewing. Overcrowded teeth can also lead to an increase in cavities as well. If you notice these issues, it may be time to consult with a pediatric orthodontist near you to determine the best course of action for your child’s dental health.
Baby Teeth Were Lost Too Early Or Too Late
A sign that your child may need braces is when they lost their baby teeth too early or too late. Losing baby teeth too early can cause the remaining teeth to shift into the empty spaces, leading to misalignment when the permanent ones come in. However, if your child loses their baby teeth later than usual, it can result in alignment issues as the adult teeth struggle to emerge properly amongst the baby teeth. Either way, if this occurs, it’s best to consult a pediatric orthodontist about braces for kids to ensure that they receive the best possible dental care.
Under Bites
Another common sign that your child may need braces is if they have an underbite. Sometimes a parent may notice their child’s bottom teeth protruding beyond the upper teeth, which is known as an underbite. This condition typically occurs in one of two scenarios, when the top jaw is underdeveloped or the bottom jaw overgrows. Identifying and addressing an underbite early can be an important step in ensuring proper dental alignment and overall oral health as your child grows. Sometimes, a pediatric dentist will recommend braces for kids who have an underbite to realign the teeth and ensure proper dental health.
When Should I Schedule My Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment?
As soon as you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to schedule your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation. You can search for a “pediatric orthodontist near me” to find options in your area. While the pediatric orthodontist may not recommend immediate treatment, this early appointment is important for preventing future dental issues. The orthodontist can identify potential growth concerns and teeth alignment problems, and then develop a treatment plan which could potentially expedite the treatment process once it begins. After consulting with them, you won’t have to worry about when your child should get braces as they’ll keep you informed and guide you through the process, including letting you know when it’s time for your child to star their journey with braces.
Dr Sedano
