Orthodontics is the specialty that deals with misaligned teeth and jaws. Not all treatment for correction of bite issues requires braces. According to the American Academy of Orthodontics, children can be evaluated for any kind of orthodontic treatment (braces/other appliances) as early as age 7.
At this time a panoramic X-ray can be exposed and used to make educated guesses about potential issues with kids’ bite.
Dentists like to see spaces between baby teeth as this means there would be less chance of crowding when the bigger adult teeth start coming in. However, crowding of baby teeth is concerning and may need early intervention.
When should I be concerned?
If you feel that your child’s baby teeth are falling out too soon or permanent teeth are coming out too late.
If your child is biting with their side teeth, not the front ones.
If you see that your child’s teeth are not touching even when their mouth seems to be completely closed.
If they bite the roof of their mouths or cheeks frequently
Grinding or clenching
Mouth breathing
Use of pacifier or thumb/finger sucking beyond age 4.
Can we wait till all the permanent teeth come out?
In most cases, we would like to wait for all the permanent teeth to erupt (excluding wisdom teeth). This makes treatment more predictable as it gives us a better idea about the growth pattern of the child. Also, this way the child will most likely only have to undergo treatment one time.
But in some cases, as mentioned above, intervening early could mean -
Shortening final treatment time
Preventing the issue from getting worse
Preventing trauma
Improving social and psychological well being
It is always good to have a discussion with the dentist about the need for early treatment for your child. Sometimes, despite the need, it may not be the best option for your child, especially if cooperation is limited and their motivation is lacking. During routine dental check-ups, the dentist is looking at your child’s bite and evaluating the risk versus benefit of early intervention with braces.
Have you ever wondered if your child needs braces? Reply in comments and don’t forget to smile wide to show your beautiful choppers! :D