Braces are not just for teenagers anymore. Many children are getting braces at younger ages, some as young as seven years old. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected more easily when treatment begins early. Over 3.5 million children and adolescents start orthodontic treatment (usually braces) each year. It’s no wonder that it is one of the fastest-growing areas of dentistry today.
When searching orthodontics for kids online, you will find countless orthodontists specializing in helping children get their teeth into the proper position.
However, orthodontics for kids doesn’t just involve fixing crooked teeth and overcrowded jaws. Several oral issues can be corrected with orthodontic treatment, including:
1. Overbite and underbite:
If your child has an overbite, their top teeth significantly protrude over their bottom teeth. An underbite is the opposite, where the bottom teeth protrude over the top teeth. Both issues can cause problems with speech, chewing, and orthodontic care later in life. Identifying these issues early on with this treatment is crucial as they can be difficult to fix later.
2. Crooked teeth:
If they are left untreated, it can lead to several problems, including difficulty cleaning the teeth, tooth decay, and gum disease. They can also cause a misaligned bite, leading to more serious problems down the road. However, with the help of professional orthodontic treatment, they can be corrected, and your children can enjoy a bright, straight smile.
3. Mouth breathing:
Many children breathe through their mouths during sleep, a condition known as mouth breathing. This can lead to problems with speaking and proper dental development. It can also cause misalignment in the teeth. Orthodontic treatment is often recommended to correct this issue, and it’s usually completed before any more significant treatment begins.
4. Crowded teeth:
Do you notice that your child’s teeth seem to be getting progressively more crowded? It may be time to consider clear braces to give them the best chance at a beautiful smile.
Crowded teeth are one of the main reasons why children need braces. This can lead to dental problems if not corrected early on. So, if you notice that your child might need braces, be sure to schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.
5. Misaligned jaws:
As with crooked teeth, misaligned jaws can lead to many problems down the road. In some cases, they may need oral treatment to help correct the issue before it can cause any severe matters like difficulty speaking or chewing. The earlier the condition is caught and corrected, the better.
6. Speech problems:
About 5% of children have some form of speech impediment. When your kid seems to be having trouble speaking clearly, it could be related to an issue with their teeth or jaws. In a few cases, you will need to see an orthodontist to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Getting proper treatment for these issues is essential for your child’s dental health and development. It can also help them maintain better oral care throughout their lives. So, if you think your child may need braces, don’t delay; make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist today.
7. Long-term thumb sucking:
Children who suck their thumbs for extended periods are more likely to have problems with their teeth and jaws. It leads to teeth misalignment and can cause difficulties with speech. You will be required to consult an orthodontist to correct the issue and ensure that your child’s teeth grow correctly.
8. TMJ dysfunction:
Temporomandibular Joint helps to combine the lower jaw with the skull. Dysfunction of such joints can lead to pain, difficulty chewing, and even headaches. If you think your child may have TMJ dysfunction, you should not delay in seeking treatment from a reputed orthodontist.
What are the top key qualities of a good Orthodontist?
At the heart of any good orthodontist is commitment to providing the highest quality care for their patients. This includes employing a thorough and patient-centered approach to diagnosis and treatment, as well as employing cutting-edge technology and techniques to achieve the best results possible. They should also be highly knowledgeable and experienced in orthodontic treatments, from braces and retainers to Invisalign.
Other important qualities include
- Excellent communication
- Interpersonal skills
- A compassionate and empathetic demeanor
- A commitment to ongoing professional development.
Ultimately, you want to ensure that your orthodontist is someone you can trust to give your child the best possible care.
How can an Orthodontist help?
An orthodontist is a specialist in dental care who focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to the alignment of teeth and jaws. These issues can include crowded or misaligned teeth, jaw pain or dysfunction, speech problems, etc. Depending on your child’s unique situation, an orthodontist may recommend various braces or other appliances to help correct the problem.
If you think your kid may need braces or other orthodontic treatment, don’t delay; make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist today.
