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Signs Your Kid Might Need Orthodontic Treatment


Written by Emily Taylor

9 signs your kid might need orthodontic treatment
As a parent, you are so keen on the development of your child, starting with his or her first word up to the day when he or she joins school. However, there is a section that goes unmentioned too frequently, and that is their development of teeth.

The manner in which they grow their teeth and jaws may influence not only their smile but also their speech, eating habits, as well as their confidence.

The good news? Honestly, catching dental stuff early just saves everyone a headache later. So, if you spot these things, maybe don’t wait around. Here’s what to watch for.

In this article..


9 Signs Your Kid Might Need Orthodontic Treatment:

1. Thumb Sucking


The typical scenario when a child still sucks his thumb or clings to a pacifier after, for example, age four or five, should be considered a little red flag. Such an activity can affect the development of the jaw and teeth of the child resulting in protruded teeth or abnormal occlusion.

If you notice they just won’t quit, probably time to book an ortho appointment. No shame, just better to get ahead of it.

2. Gaps between Teeth


It is normal to have some form of spacing when the children are losing baby teeth however, big or uneven gaps that do not close with the appearance of permanent teeth may be an issue. Such gaps may show the fit errors and an orthodontist needs to assess them.

3. Trouble Speaking Clearly


Children who are unable to correctly pronounce "S" or "R," and those who have a lisp, may be facing a problem that is bigger than a speech delay only. It can be that improper teeth or jaws have given the child the inability to speak because of the way the mouth is formed.

The use of orthodontics in the initial stage of treatment is usually capable of solving such a problem.

4. Bite Problems


A “bite” refers to how the upper and lower teeth come together. Watch for signs like:

  • Overbite: the top teeth protruding beyond the lower ones
  • Underbite: the lower teeth covering the upper ones
  • Crossbite: the top and bottom teeth that are not fitting correctly

These bite problems may result in difficulties in chewing as well as discomfort in the jaw. Your orthodontist is the one who can give you the solution before they become bigger problems. r enamel during post-teeth-whitening care.

5. Crowded Teeth


When the teeth of your child are all distorted – overlapping, twisted, or squeezed together – these are classified as crowded teeth. In such a situation, it is also difficult for kids to maintain dental hygiene and small problems like cavities or gum diseases may start to appear.

However, no need to be anxious since braces will solve it by producing room hence your teeth will get the proper position.

6. Losing Baby Teeth Too Early or Too Late


Most children have their primary teeth removed at the age of 6. If your child's teeth are being lost too early or too late, the adult teeth may be grown in twisted or displaced. The orthodontist will be able to tell whether the child is losing teeth on time or if it is having an impact on general dental growth.

7. Jaw Misalignment


Does your child have jaw pain or difficulty chewing? Do you observe their jaw moving when they open or close their mouth? These may be evidence of the misalignment of the jaw that would influence the way their teeth fit. The state of affairs can be checked by a dental check-up.

8. Mouth Breathing


Is your child frequently mouth breathing during sleep? It might be that they are breathing through their mouth rather than their nose. The dental complication of which mouth breathing is a frequent cause is malocclusion. The latter may lead to a dental disorder called orthodontic disease which manifests itself with abnormal tooth positions and increased gaps between teeth.

A medical professional specializing in dentistry is the one who can diagnose the root of the problem and recommend the treatment for it.

9. Grinding Teeth at Night


Grinding teeth while sleeping — called bruxism — can wear down enamel and even shift the position of teeth. You should also inform your dentist about this habit because they would be able to examine early indications of misalignment.

Why Early Orthodontic Check-ups Matter

First of all, your kid is likely to develop a strong, good smile that will last him/her a lifetime in case you figure out these symptoms at an early stage. Early orthodontic treatment may:

  • Prevent bigger dental problems later

  • Make future treatments shorter and less complicated

  • Enhance the chewing, speech, and smiling of your child.

You might not know but by visiting an orthodontist for a quick check-up, you will be able to relax, and also your child will have a lifetime of being in great oral health.

About the author


Emily Taylor found the perfect fit for herself as the Online Marketing Manager at Thurman Orthodontics in Fresno CA as she believes that a great smile does more than just make a person look great – it makes them feel great as well. The power of a smile has always been a mystery to Emily and she loves researching and writing about it. She loves to write about everything to do with a healthy bite and a beautiful smile - whether it is ways to achieve it or the importance of it in the various aspects of life. What brings a big smile on Emily’s face is her family and surfing.