If you’re looking to take you or your child’s dental health more seriously, braces could be the answer. Read on to discover more about braces, what age braces are necessary, and when to contact your
orthodontist in for help.
At some point or another everyone loses their “baby teeth” to make way for their adult teeth. This pivotal moment is a large factor in how adult teeth arrange themselves in the mouth. The potential for overcrowding, gaps, or crooked teeth determine dental health into the teenage and adult years.
Although some teeth may realign themselves during this period of growth, you may notice other signs that your child is suffering from dental health issues. Keep in mind the following when considering braces for your child or teen.
Their baby teeth are taking a while to fall out.
They are having issues chewing food or biting down fully.
They tend to bite their nails or suck their fingers regularly.
They breathe out of their mouth regularly or have speech difficulties.
Their teeth are misplaced, misaligned, over-crowded, or are protruding from the mouth.
They grind or clench their teeth or experience frequent cheek biting.
They experience jaw issues like grinding, shifting, protruding, or popping.
Crooked teeth can correct themselves during the baby teeth to adult teeth transition, but this is not always the case. When it comes to determining whether your child needs braces, it’s best to check-in with your orthodontist as early as possible.
Children can be seen for
orthodontic care as early as 7 years old according to the AAO (American Academy of Orthodontists). However, your doctor probably won’t recommend immediate care unless something serious is found. Typically, braces are suggested between the ages of 9 to 14 years old. At this point, all of the baby teeth have transitioned to adult ones and any issues can be identified immediately.
Catching potential dental health issues early helps mitigate any side effects caused by braces. It can also potentially shorten the amount of time that braces are worn - although anyone of any age can benefit from braces.
Braces are a great choice for dental health, no matter your age. Anyone can get braces at any point after adult teeth have grown in fully. Not only do braces help realign teeth, but they have many dental health benefits, as well.
If your child or teen is experiencing any of the above issues when it comes to their teeth, mouth, or jaw, consider contacting an orthodontist in . A skilled orthodontist can help you learn more about braces, how to take care of braces, and why this dental health choice is right for you.
