Did you know that all children should have an orthodontic evaluation by the time they turn 7 years old? If your child is approaching that age, now is the time to book an appointment for them! Making sure they get timely treatment can support proper development of their jaws and face, and may spare them from more complex procedures in the future.
Of course, while an evaluation is important for all children, some kids are especially in need of a visit to an orthodontist. How can you tell if your child might need braces? Here are some signs to look for:
Obvious Dental Misalignment
One of the clearest signals that your child may require braces is visible dental misalignment. If you notice that your child’s teeth are noticeably crooked, overlapping, or protruding, this could indicate the need for orthodontic care. Without timely treatment, these issues can cause ongoing oral hygiene challenges and other complications.
Difficulties with Speech, Eating, or Breathing
If your child experiences challenges when speaking, eating, or breathing, orthodontic issues might be contributing to the problem. Misaligned teeth and jaws can sometimes affect the way your child pronounces words or chews food. Some children who frequently breathe through their mouths rather than their noses may have underlying orthodontic concerns. Addressing these problems promptly can provide your child with a more comfortable experience and support their overall development.
Disproportionate Jaws and Teeth
Pay attention to the way your child’s jaws and teeth work together. If you notice that their jaws appear out of proportion with the rest of their face or if their teeth do not seem to fit together properly when they bite, these could be signs of an underlying orthodontic condition. Issues such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites can affect your child’s ability to chew and speak, as well as their facial appearance. Timely intervention can help guide jaw growth and correct these imbalances.
Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth
The timing and pattern of baby tooth loss can provide valuable clues about your child’s dental development. If your child loses baby teeth much earlier or later than their peers, or if adult teeth emerge in an unusual sequence, orthodontic attention may be needed. Delayed or uneven loss of baby teeth can sometimes lead to crowding or spacing problems.
Advice from Your Child’s Regular Dentist
Your child’s regular dentist is a key partner in identifying orthodontic needs. During routine checkups, your dentist should monitor tooth eruption, jaw growth, and overall oral health. If the dentist expresses concerns or recommends an orthodontic evaluation, it is wise to follow this advice promptly. Timely referral to an orthodontist can help address problems before they become more severe, setting the stage for a healthier smile in the future.
Does your child need braces? To find out for sure, bring them in for a visit with an orthodontic specialist.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ben Youel is the leader of our team at Grayslake Orthodontics. He strongly believes in the power of timely orthodontic care, and he loves to work with kids! If you believe your child might benefit from our care, we are ready to welcome you for a consultation. Call or text our office at 847-548-4330.
