What Parents Need to Know About Children’s Orthodontics

By: Dr. Jaime Martins

Children’s Orthodontic Care

As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their health. One area that often raises questions is orthodontic care. When should my child see an orthodontist? How do I know if they need braces? Here’s what you need to know to ensure your child’s smile develops as it should.

Common Orthodontic Issues in Children

Some of the most common orthodontic concerns in children include:

  • Crowding: When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth.
  • Overbite: When the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
  • Underbite: When the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth.
  • Crossbite: When some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside.
  • Open Bite: When the front teeth don’t meet, often caused by habits like thumb-sucking.

Action shot of orthodontist Dr. Jaime Martins, as he works with an orthodontic patient for Dental Depot of West Norman Oklahoma.
Pictured: Dr. Jaime Martins works with an orthodontic patient at Dental Depot of Oklahoma.

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Early intervention can often guide the growth of the jaw and create more room for permanent teeth to emerge properly, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatment later.

When Should Your Child Have Their First Orthodontic Visit?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. This might seem early, but at this age, your child’s jaw and teeth are still growing. Early visits allow orthodontists to identify potential issues, such as misaligned bites or overcrowded teeth, and address them before they become more complex.

Signs You May Need Braces or Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about achieving a beautiful smile (though that’s a big perk!). It’s also about improving oral health and function. But how do you know if you’re a candidate for braces or other orthodontic treatments? Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Crowded or Crooked Teeth

If your teeth overlap or are tightly packed together, this can make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can create the space needed for proper oral hygiene.

2. Gaps Between Teeth

While some spacing is normal, excessive gaps can affect your bite and may indicate missing or improperly sized teeth.

3. Bite Issues

Your bite refers to how your upper and lower teeth meet. Common bite problems include:

  • Overbite: Upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth.
  • Underbite: Lower teeth extend in front of the upper teeth.
  • Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth don’t align properly.
  • Open Bite: Upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.

Bite issues can cause difficulty chewing, jaw pain, or even speech problems if left untreated.

4. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

If you find it hard to chew food evenly or if your teeth affect your speech, orthodontic treatment can help align your teeth and improve function.

5. Jaw Pain or Clicking

Frequent jaw pain, clicking, or popping noises could indicate a misaligned bite or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, which orthodontic treatment can often address.

6. Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism) can wear down your teeth over time and even lead to fractures. An orthodontist can evaluate if your bite is contributing to this problem.

 

What Are Phase 1 and Phase 2 Treatments?

Orthodontic treatment is sometimes divided into two phases:

  • Phase 1: This occurs while some baby teeth are still present. The goal is to address significant issues early, such as jaw discrepancies or severe crowding.
  • Phase 2: This begins once all permanent teeth have erupted, focusing on aligning the teeth and perfecting the bite.

 

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit

During the initial consultation, the orthodontist will evaluate your child’s teeth, jaws, and facial structure. They may recommend X-rays or digital scans to get a detailed view. Be prepared to ask questions and discuss treatment options. Remember, not all children will need braces right away, and sometimes monitoring is all that’s required for now.

 

Next Steps: Scheduling a Consultation

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist is the best way to determine your options. During the visit, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including digital scans or X-rays, to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Remember, orthodontics isn’t just for kids. Many adults are discovering the benefits of braces and aligners for improving their smiles and oral health. It’s never too late to achieve the smile you deserve! Schedule an orthodontic consultation with us today!

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