Did you know that nearly 75 percent of children have a dental problem that needs to be addressed with orthodontics? So, if you think your child needs braces, you’re most likely right. But how can you know for sure? Find out from an orthodontist in Ripon.
Signs Your Child Needs Braces
Straight teeth and an aligned “bite” are beneficial to the health, well-being, and longevity of your smile. There are reasons it is ideal to treat a patient while they are young and still growing. Here are a few signs to be on the lookout for as your child grows:
- Breathing through their mouth
- Biting their cheeks
- Difficulty chewing
- Sucking their fingers or thumb
- Not having a bite that comes together evenly
- Difficulty when speaking
These are just a few problems that can be linked to “crooked,” “spaced,” or otherwise “misaligned” teeth. It is a good idea to bring these symptoms and issues to the attention of an orthodontist in Ripon because often, some of these problems are most easily managed when they are first noticed, and when the patient is young and still growing.
How Braces Benefit Your Child
It’s no secret that braces can improve the look of your child’s smile. However, orthodontic treatment comes with several other benefits. For starters, guiding your child’s teeth into a healthier position decreases their chances of developing oral health problems such as gingivitis and tooth decay since there are fewer places for food particles and other debris to “hide.”
Additionally, a bite that comes together properly will more effectively break down food when chewing. It will aid digestion, and often, excessive wear and tear of certain teeth are eliminated or reduced. Lastly, straight teeth make it easier for your child to enunciate properly. Speaking patterns and communication is improved when teeth are aligned.
Orthodontic Treatments Available to Children
Previously, orthodontic treatment was limited to traditional metal braces. While this is still an effective treatment option, patients have other teeth-straightening solutions from which to choose. One of the most sought-after options is Invisalign which utilizes clear, removable trays to guide misaligned teeth into their proper position.
For children who are not old enough to consider metal or clear braces just yet, interceptive orthodontics may be their orthodontic solution. This type of treatment is designed for children who do not yet have all their permanent teeth but need early intervention to aid such things as skeletal growth, or discontinuation of thumb- or finger-sucking habits. There are many things to consider but do not worry – making an appointment with an orthodontist to review the situation will begin to answer some of your questions.
At a new patient appointment, we will discuss the various options with you to determine if steps are advised to improve your child’s dental situation. Every patient has their own unique set of circumstances, and our office will focus on your specific questions and patient needs.
Braces can significantly benefit the look and function of your child’s smile, so keep an eye out for the common signs that treatment may be beneficial. Often, it is better to address a problem early rather than wait until a situation worsens. We will present what we see to you and your child and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.
About the Author
Dr. Frances Hamman earned her dental doctorate from Creighton University and then attained her degree in orthodontics from Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Hamman served on active duty in the United States Navy for six years. If you want to learn more about braces for children, there’s no better way to get informed about available options than to schedule an appointment with a trusted orthodontist in Ripon on her website or call (920) 748-7130.
