How Do I Know If My Child Requires Orthodontic Treatment?
Posted on 10/31/2023 by Weo Admin
Many parents wonder if their children need orthodontic treatment or not. However, there are various indicators that you can look for.
Crowded Teeth
Your child may need orthodontic correction if they have irregularly spaced, misaligned, or severely crowded teeth. For instance, crowded teeth can result from a narrow palate, which may require treatment using a palate expander or braces.
Improper Bite and Misaligned Jaw
If your child is experiencing jaw and bite problems, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Jaw issues can result in improper teeth alignment. Some of the typical jaw and bite issues include overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. If you suspect that your child's jaw or bite is irregular, it is advisable to consult our orthodontists. They will assess whether orthodontic treatment is required.
Biting or Chewing Problems
If you see that your child is having difficulties chewing food or biting, it could be an indication that orthodontic treatment is required. Problem signs include food remaining in the mouth and falling out of the mouth. Another telltale sign is a slow and inefficient chewing and eating process.
Speech Problems
Misaligned teeth can occasionally impact your child's ability to pronounce words correctly and maintain air control while speaking. If your child experiences difficulty pronouncing certain words or encounters general speech challenges, visit our orthodontist. Also, a speech pathologist may provide a beneficial approach.
Thumb Sucking
Many parents think that thumb sucking is harmless, but it can have practical drawbacks in the long run. Prolonged thumb-sucking can gradually push children's teeth outward and cause improper jaw development. Additionally, this misalignment can result in eating difficulties.
Early or Delayed Shedding of Baby Teeth
Typically, baby teeth start to emerge between the ages of 1 and 3. They then begin to loosen and naturally fall out at around six years of age. By the time your child reaches about 12 to 13 years old, all of their baby teeth should have naturally shed, making way for permanent adult teeth.
Nevertheless, if your child experiences premature loss of baby teeth or if these teeth remain in their mouth when they should naturally fall out, it could be an indicator of oral developmental concerns. In such cases, orthodontic treatment, including braces, may be necessary.
Many parents wonder if their children need orthodontic treatment or not. However, there are various indicators that you can look for.