5 Signs That Your Child Needs Orthodontic Treatment

When did you last take your kid for an orthodontic check-up? As recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, children should start orthodontic care when their permanent teeth start coming out, mainly at the age of seven. Apart from detecting and treating common dental problems on time, the orthodontist monitors your child's development to ensure proper facial and jaw growth. More importantly, they provide advice on how you can address harmful oral habits displayed by your child. 

Here are five dental problems in kids that require orthodontic treatment:

1. Overcrowded Teeth

Overcrowding of teeth in children occurs when the child has bigger teeth or too many teeth for the available jaw space. In such a case, there isn't enough space for each tooth to grow on its own, causing the teeth to rotate and overlap. If the problem is not corrected, your child's teeth appear crooked, significantly affecting their appearance and self-esteem. If you notice overcrowding of teeth in your child, it's advisable to seek orthodontic care. The dentist will evaluate your kid and determine if they need treatment to straighten the teeth out.

2. Crossbite

Normally, your child's upper teeth should always be in the same position as the lower ones. When you close your mouth, the lower teeth should perfectly fit over the lower ones. If the kid has a crossbite, the teeth are misaligned, and the upper teeth fit inside the lower ones. The common causes of a crossbite include: 

•  Genetics
•  When adult teeth grow before all the milk teeth have fallen out

A crossbite can affect only one tooth or several teeth. It can also involve back teeth, front teeth, or both.

3. Teeth Grinding

Studies show that 15% to 33% of kids grind or clench their teeth. The problem is known as bruxism and happens when children are deep asleep. In most cases, kids grind teeth since the lower and upper teeth aren't aligned properly. Others clench their teeth when in pain or extreme stress. If you have noted the problem in your child, you should seek orthodontic treatment for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

4. Mouth Breathing 

Have you noted your child breathing through the mouth, even when they are asleep? They could be having a mouth breathing problem, and you need to see an orthodontist. If the problem is left untreated in children, it can lead to facial deformities, crooked teeth, and poor growth.

5. Late Loss of Baby Teeth

Should you get worried if your child's milk teeth aren't falling out? When your child is 6 to 7 years old, they should lose their lower and upper central incisors. Other teeth have different loss timelines. If a child hits ten years and the front teeth haven't fallen out, you should take them to an orthodontist. The delay could signify a major development problem that needs professional attention.

The Bottom Line

Seeking orthodontic treatment for your child is one way of ensuring a healthy, functional bite. When teeth and jaws are properly aligned, they can function as intended, promoting general physical and oral health.