braces

5 Signs Your Child Needs Braces

Posted on October 20, 2021

If you are worried that your child may need braces, five signs can signify it is time to make an appointment with an orthodontist. A straight smile is a great confidence builder, but it is not the only advantage of braces.

Properly positioned teeth are easier to keep healthy. Look for these five signs listed below to determine if you need to make an appointment with an orthodontist.

When Teeth Are Overcrowded

Overcrowding can cause teeth to twist and turn. It is also challenging to brush and floss overcrowded teeth. An orthodontist can provide treatment options to give those teeth a little more room to grow and stay healthy.

When The Bite is Off

Both an overbite and an underbite can signify the need for braces. When your child’s bite is off, it can cause the teeth to wear unevenly, damage the enamel on the teeth, and ultimately make the teeth prone to cavities.

Children can develop jaw pain and headaches from an uneven bite. Braces can fix bite issues.

Keep An Eye On Thumb Sucking

Children that suck their thumb are two times more likely to have to wear braces. If thumb sucking continues beyond the age of three, your child will likely need braces.

Primary Teeth Loss

In some cases, losing primary teeth too late can signify that braces will be needed to correct the problem. In other cases, losing primary teeth too soon will be a sign that braces will be needed. An orthodontist is the best resource for determining if braces are a solution for your child.

Complaints of Pain in the Jaw

Jaw pain can signify that the teeth are misaligned, or the jaw itself is not aligned properly. Braces can address the problem and get rid of the pain.

When Should Your Child First Visit the Orthodontist?

If you suspect that your child needs braces, according to Johnson Orthodontics, the best time to get your child to the orthodontist is around seven years old. Most of the adult molars are in at this point, and the orthodontist will be able to evaluate your child and determine if braces are the right answer to correct any problems.

Early intervention gets the best results. Make your appointment today if you notice any of the above signs.