Crooked teeth may make a dental patient of any age feel self-conscious. But dental alignment issues can put your smile in greater danger of tooth decay, gum disease, and many other oral health concerns. So you should not hesitate to ask your dentist about teeth-straightening solutions.
Patients of any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment, which may include braces, Invisalign, or oral appliances that will align a patient’s smile. But dentists often note that young patients can see optimal results when they undergo orthodontic treatment in their childhood.
You might wonder if putting your child through this dental treatment will help them in the long run. And the answer is yes. Consult your family dentist for more details about the treatment that can benefit your child. And read on to learn the importance of early intervention when it comes to orthodontics.
Why Should Pediatric Dental Patients Seek Orthodontic Treatment?
A major reason that a dentist will recommend early intervention for orthodontics is that their adult teeth and jaw are not yet fully fused into place. This means that if the teeth or jaw appear misaligned, then they can more easily move with help from braces or other treatments.
Early orthodontic treatment can also help the young patient avoid oral health issues that may stem from crooked teeth. These patients can have trouble cleaning their smile effectively if they have malocclusions. And this may result in the formation of cavities or other dental issues. Straightening their teeth stops irreversible damage from enamel erosion and other problems that may develop over time.
In adulthood, a patient can still successfully straighten their smile through orthodontics. But the treatment may take longer. And adults might have other dental work, like implants or other fixtures, that could affect their treatment options.
When Should I Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation for My Child?
A dental patient can visit their dentist and schedule an orthodontic consultation at any age. But dentists suggest making this appointment after the child’s baby teeth have fallen out. This usually happens between ages 9 and 14.
You might notice a few signs in your child that could point to the need for orthodontic treatment. For instance, if a child has habits like thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or lip biting, they may require this type of treatment. You may also see crooked teeth or facial dissymmetry that could point to the need for orthodontics.
The dentist will thoroughly examine the patient’s smile to find the best course of action. X-ray imaging allows the dentist to view teeth that have not grown into place yet, including wisdom teeth. They can monitor the effect of these teeth on dental alignment.
If your child seems nervous about this dental work, your dentist can work with you and the young patient about their comfort levels. Your family dental practice has extensive experience and training in ensuring patients of any age can feel comfortable in their care.