Is orthodontic treatment important for every child?

“Does my child need braces?” is one of the most common orthodontics related question parents ask their pediatric dental specialists. One of the greatest things about pediatric dentists is that they have the opportunity to monitor children’s dental development each year and watch them grow up. So you can rest assured that when your child is finally ready to see the orthodontist, your dentist will recommend an evaluation.

Many people believe that the only purpose of braces is to achieve a straight smile, but the truth is that orthodontics does much more than that. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to determine if there is a need for early intervention. Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits for your child and can improve their overall quality of life.

Orthodontics reduces the risk of tooth decay.

People with crowded teeth are more likely to develop tooth decay. More food and plaque build up because it is more difficult to brush and floss in those difficult-to-reach areas. Orthodontics helps align teeth properly, allowing your child to efficiently remove food particles so they have a lower chance of developing cavities and gum disease.

It helps with teeth grinding.

Kids who chronically grind their teeth could have malocclusion (a bite problem) or improperly positioned teeth. Malocclusion can cause people to grind their teeth because they are constantly trying to get their teeth to touch. Grinding can also contribute to airway problems and stress. Correcting your child’s bite malocclusion with braces or clear aligners can help reduce grinding and wear and tear on their teeth. At night, clear aligners act as a barrier to protect your child’s teeth from enamel damage.

Orthodontics helps improve your jaw structure.

A significant benefit of orthodontics is that it helps jaw architecture and allows for optimal jaw growth. For children who are in active growth, a jaw deformity can impact their facial profile, bite alignment, and facial development. Children with severe malocclusion can benefit from early orthodontic intervention to prevent potential problems or worrying about future jaw growth.

It helps prevent biting problems.

When teeth do not properly align, it can cause facial muscle stress and tension headaches. These can contribute to TMJ problems, ear pain, and migraines long term. An orthodontist can prevent these issues by correcting a bad bite and making it easier to chew, sleep, and smile. Braces and clear aligners relieve uneven pressure and reduce the chance of TMJD development. And the optimal time to correct a child’s bite is while their jaw is still growing.

Orthodontics creates beautiful smiles.

There is no question that orthodontics creates perfect, gorgeous smiles. One of the greatest physical attributes people have is their smile, and when orthodontic treatment is complete, it can change a person’s life by improving their confidence and self-esteem. You will notice your child smiling more and laughing more freely and showing off their new, straight smile.

Yes, orthodontics produces beautiful smiles, but it does much more than that. Correcting your child’s malocclusion, or misaligned bite, can help prevent serious dental issues like TMJD, grinding, and tooth decay. When you sign your child up for orthodontic treatment, you are setting them up for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.

If your child does not yet have a dental home or you are unsure if they are ready for an orthodontic referral, schedule an appointment with us at Pediatric Dental Specialists for an evaluation and we’ll take a look.