What are the benefits of early pediatric orthodontic treatment?
Common Signs Your Child Needs Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment
Early treatment usually begins around the age of eight or nine. Orthodontic treatment helps correct jaw growth to prevent bite problems. Getting children the care they need early on allows room for permanent teeth to come in properly. This can greatly reduce the chances they will need an extraction later. Here are some signs your child needs pediatric orthodontic treatment.
Losing their baby teeth too early or too late. They usually start losing teeth between five and six and have all their permanent teeth by about 13 years of age.
If they have any difficulty with chewing or biting.
Mouth breathing is a huge sign your child needs orthodontic treatment.
Thumb sucking after five years of age.
Teeth that protrude.
If their teeth don’t meet properly or don’t come together normally.
Speech impediments.
If their jaw shifts when they open or close their mouths.
Front teeth that are too crowded at seven or age years of age.
Benefits of Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment
The sooner your child gets orthodontic treatment the higher the chances it will improve the growth in your child’s face and jaw. When children are introduced early, your child’s bones are still malleable and the jaw can expand to make more room for teeth. You may be able to avoid surgery later by getting them treated early. In the long run, early treatment can be less painful and less time-consuming. Here are some of the primary benefits of pediatric orthodontic treatment.
Create More Space with Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment
Early pediatric orthodontic treatment between six or seven years of age can help prevent problems like crowding. More space can be created to allow teeth to erupt. Before the permanent teeth erupt, the jaw can be expanded to allow for plenty of room.
Improves Facial Symmetry
Braces for kids help correct issues with misaligned and crooked teeth. As teeth move, they change the overall appearance of the face. Pediatric orthodontics has a positive impact on the alignment of the jaws and teeth and preserves the natural symmetry of the face.
Reduces Tooth Damage
When children’s teeth protrude, their lip coverage doesn’t always protect their teeth if they fall or get hit with an object. This can damage their front teeth, or even cause tooth loss. Braces help correct protruding teeth, so they are not as susceptible to damage.
Resolve Speed Obstruction
If the upper teeth are allowed to overlap the bottom teeth, it can interfere with proper tongue placement. This can cause air to escape when talking and can cause a whistling sound. Braces help correct overbites and fill in gaps between teeth, so this issue is resolved.
Reduces the Likelihood of Future Problems
Pediatric orthodontic treatment reduces later treatment probabilities. If treatment does continue, they are usually much shorter than if treatment is delayed early on. Braces help ensure permanent teeth are aligned properly as they erupt. This reduces the need for tooth removal and further treatment.
Contact Upper East Side Kids Dentist
If you are concerned about your child’s oral health care needs or wonder if they need pediatric orthodontic treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will gladly discuss the benefits of early treatment. Our children’s dentist in UES NYC will monitor your child’s oral health and ensure they receive the treatment and care they need for a lifetime of good oral health. Call us today to schedule an appointment.