It can be tough to tell when it is time for your kids to get braces. Some parents wait until their child’s teeth look crooked, while others proactively take their child to the orthodontist as soon as they have all of their adult teeth. There is no one “right” answer, but some general guidelines can help you decide when to start thinking about braces for your kids and visit an orthodontist Flushing, NY, for a consultation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Many kids still have baby teeth at this age, but an orthodontist can spot early problems that may need to be addressed down the road. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are caught early.
If you are not sure whether or not your child needs braces, here are a few signs to look out for:
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Teeth that crowd or overlap each other
When you notice that your child’s teeth are starting to crowd or overlap, it is good to consult with an orthodontist. It is usually one of the first signs that braces may be necessary.
A hard time cleaning teeth
If your child has a hard time keeping their teeth clean because of overcrowding or other alignment issues, this is another sign that it may be time to consider braces. When your kid is not keeping their teeth clean, it could lead to gum disease or tooth decay.
Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
If your child is biting their cheek or roof of their mouth frequently, this could be a sign of an improper bite. An orthodontist can help correct this issue and prevent future pain and discomfort.
Frequent headaches
If your child is getting frequent headaches, it could be due to misalignment of the jaw. A consultation with an orthodontist can help determine if this is the case and the best course of treatment.
Mouth breathing or snoring
Mouth breathing and snoring can be signs of an overcrowded mouth or misaligned jaw, so if you notice either of these habits in your child, it is worth discussing with an orthodontist.
Speech problems
If you notice that your child is starting to have trouble speaking clearly, it could be due to teeth blocking the airflow. It is another issue that an orthodontist can help to correct. Such problems are usually more common in younger children.
Jaw pain
If your child complains of jaw pain, it is worth having them evaluated by an orthodontist. It could be a sign of TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) which can be helped with treatment from an orthodontist.
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
If your child has difficulty chewing or swallowing, it is possible that their teeth are not aligned properly. It is another issue that an orthodontist can help to correct.
If you are noticing any of these signs, it is good to consult with an orthodontist at House of Braces to see if braces are suitable for your child. The earlier you catch problems, the easier they may be to correct. However, even if your child’s teeth are not perfect, there is no need to rush into getting braces. Every child is different and will have different orthodontic needs.
