As your child starts to get older, you may start to wonder if your child will need braces and how would you know if they do need braces? If you start to bring your child to see their pediatric dentist from an early age, they will be able to catch any early signs of orthodontic problems and can help with treatment in the future. Braces are common in children, but knowing the signs aren’t always common knowledge.
If a child is going to develop an orthodontic issue, the ages are dependant on the child. The most important thing you can do for your child’s overall oral health and development is to take them to see a child’s dentist regularly. Your pediatric dentist will be able to track your child’s growing teeth and could even catch and treat problems before they turn into bigger and more expensive problems.
Some children can show signs of orthodontic problems as early as age 5 or 6 while others won’t show any signs of problems until the age of 12 or 13.
Signs and Symptoms of Braces:
The most common reason a parent will start to look for orthodontic treatment is if their child’s teeth are crowded. You will notice this if your child’s teeth are crowded because there’s no room and the teeth are cramped. If this is left untreated, it will get worse as your child gets older. The more crowded the teeth are, the harder it is to properly clean your child’s teeth with could lead to tooth decay, bad breath, or gum disease.
There are a variety of abnormal bites that can cause your child to need braces and they are overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. The type of abnormal bite your child has will determine how it is treated. Overbites are typically the most common problem, you will notice this when your child has their front teeth sticking out over the bottom teeth. When your child’s front teeth are out farther than the bottom teeth, this poses a problem because if your child falls on their face, they’re more likely to fracture the front teeth.
Your child’s dentist will be able to help refer you to an orthodontist if it’s necessary and help prevent any problems at an early age. If you want the best pediatric dentist in Chicago, IL come to see All Star Dental. For more information on our children’s dentistry services or to schedule an appointment, you can contact us online or call any of our 5 locations in Chicago including United Center, Austin, Blue Island, Aurora, & Joliet.
