How can you tell if braces are right for your little one? If you’re a parent wondering if your child needs orthodontic treatment, you may need help determining what signs and indicators to look for. Here at Darwen Orthodontics, we’ve identified a few of the most common signs that your child may need braces.
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
This is a common indicator of orthodontic problems. Baby teeth are usually supposed to come between the ages of 1-3. Then, they begin loosening and falling out at around age 6. By the time your child is 12-13, all of their baby teeth should have fallen out, and they should have all of their adult teeth.
However, if your child’s baby teeth fall out much earlier than expected or remain in their mouth even when they’re supposed to fall out naturally, this could indicate oral development issues that may require braces and orthodontic treatment.
Misaligned Jaw & Improper Bite
If your child has issues with their jaw and bite and their teeth do not meet correctly, they may need orthodontic treatment. Common jaw and bite issues include:
- Overbite is when the upper teeth jut outward and do not overlap properly with the lower teeth
- Underbite, where the lower teeth project outward and do not overlap properly with the upper teeth
- Crossbite, where the teeth do not overlap correctly
- Open bite, where there is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth, even when the mouth is closed
If you think your child’s jaw or bite is irregular, it’s best to see an orthodontist; contact your orthodontist in Darwen for a consultation to see if they need orthodontic treatment.
Crowded Teeth or Irregular Teeth Alignment
If your child’s teeth are crooked, irregular, crowded, and overlapping. In that case, this is a sign that they may need orthodontic correction. Crowded teeth, for example, can be caused by a narrow palate that may require treatment with braces and a palate expander.
Prolonged Habits like Thumb Sucking or Mouth Breathing
Some habits developed during childhood, like thumb sucking and mouth breathing, can cause orthodontic issues. Consistent, prolonged thumb sucking that persists past the age of 2-4 can cause problems with teeth alignment and proper oral development, and mouth breathing can affect the development of the jaw and the position of the teeth.
Problems with Chewing or Biting
If your child has trouble chewing their food properly or biting, they may need orthodontic treatment. Signs of chewing issues include food left in the mouth, or that falls out of the mouth or slow and inefficient chewing and eating.
When determining if your child needs braces, it’s always best to consult an orthodontist here at Darwen Orthodontics; our orthodontists have the specialised knowledge and expertise to evaluate your child’s dental health and recommend the appropriate treatment.
At the first appointment, the orthodontist will thoroughly examine factors such as your child’s jaw growth, teeth alignment, bite, and overall oral health. Based on this evaluation, the orthodontist will determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary and, if so, when it should be started.
Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits for children, including improved teeth alignment, enhanced chewing functionality, and a boost in self-confidence. Our orthodontists will guide you through the treatment process and ensure your child receives the best possible care.
If you suspect your child may need braces, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Darwen Orthodontics. Early detection and timely orthodontic treatment can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime. Contact us on 01254 775165 today.
