Sometimes, children may not be able to communicate problems they have with their teeth. While it’s often apparent when your child may require braces, other times it might not be quite so obvious when tooth correction is necessary. If you think braces for your children may be needed, here are some signs to look for.
They Complain of Mouth or Jaw Pain
You can’t always see orthodontic issues. If your child is frequently complaining about pain in their mouth or jaw, especially when they chew or bite, it may be time to visit your orthodontist. The pain could be caused by misalignment of the teeth.
They Struggle to Chew
When teeth are out of place, it can make chewing or biting painful or challenging. If you notice that your child is taking a longer time to chew, or they complain about accidentally biting their tongue, lips, or the inside of their cheeks frequently, they may be the right candidate for braces.
Speech Problems
There are several reasons why speech problems may occur in children, but misaligned teeth can be a cause. Pronunciation of specific words or sounds can be more challenging when teeth are crooked or out of place. Your orthodontist may be able to work alongside a speech pathologist and help correct any issues before they become more pronounced.
Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth
If your child lost their baby teeth earlier or later than normal (most children begin losing their baby teeth between the ages of 5 and 6), it could potentially indicate the need for braces. Baby teeth that are lost later can sometimes cause permanent teeth to erupt behind the baby teeth, resulting in crowding and misalignment. It’s important to consult with your child’s dentist or orthodontist if you have concerns about this timeline.
Overlapping Teeth
You might notice that your child’s teeth overlap when they bite down or smile. If you notice an obvious overbite or underbite, it could be an indication that braces may be necessary. Braces can correct the issue by helping to realign the teeth and jaw to achieve a more even bite.
Make sure you talk to an orthodontist about any concerns you may have about your child’s teeth. Without proper treatment, misalignment in the mouth can lead to more severe dental problems down the road.
About the Author
Dr. Balicka is an expert in the field of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. She works with children and adults to improve the quality of their smiles. She earned her doctorate at the New York University College of Dentistry before going on to pursue an additional 3 years of residency in the St. Barnabas Hospital orthodontics program. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a clinical professor for post-graduate residents at the Nassau University Medical Center. If you have any questions about braces for children, visit her website or give her a call at (631)423-7857.