Are you wondering how old your child needs to be to get braces?
Parents look for any advantage their children might have to succeed in life. And with the right smile, your child has a head start when applying to colleges. While many Western countries don’t mind a slightly crooked smile, China and most other Asian countries require perfect teeth.
So when should you get braces? Is it something you need to worry about? Keep reading to find out.
Signs That Your Child Needs Braces
Your child’s teeth are important to their overall health and development. Many children will need braces at some point to ensure their teeth are healthy and aligned correctly. So, here are some signs to look out for.
Self-consciousness
If your child is uncomfortable smiling or laughing with their teeth showing, it could be a sign that they’re self-conscious about their teeth and might need braces.
Mouth Pain
If your child is experiencing regular mouth pain, it could be a sign that their teeth are misaligned and need to be fixed.
Difficulty in Biting or Chewing
If your child struggles to bite or chew their food, it could be a sign that their teeth are not aligned correctly. This can not only be painful, but it can also cause problems digesting their food.
Crooked or Overlapping
If your child’s teeth look crooked or crowded, they will likely need braces to fix the issue.
If you notice any of these signs, the first thing you should do is search for “Dentist near me.” You can then make an appointment for a consultation. During the consultation, your local orthodontist will be able to tell you if your child needs braces and what the best course of treatment would be.
When to Start Orthodontic Treatment
Most children will benefit from orthodontic treatment, but the best time to start varies from child to child. In general, orthodontic treatment should start when the first permanent molars and incisors have erupted, which is around age 6 or 7, says this Avon Lake dentist. However, every child is different, so it is important to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best time to start treatment for your child.
Why Early Orthodontic Treatment is Important
Many readers may be wondering why early orthodontic treatment is so important. The answer is simple.
By intercepting problems early on, we can prevent them from becoming worse. Crooked teeth and bad bites can lead to several problems, both cosmetic and functional. Additionally, early treatment may save you time and money in the long run.
The Right Time to Get Braces
The age at which a child should get braces is decided by the orthodontist. They will take into account the child’s age, rate of growth, and the severity of the misalignment. The best thing you can do is consult your orthodontist about the best time to begin treatment.
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