Signs Your Child Could Benefit from Early Orthodontic Intervention

Posted on April 9, 2024

It’s pretty normal for kids to receive orthodontic treatments, especially as teenagers. Not everyone does though. Some people don’t get orthodontic treatments until they’re much older. While it’s never too late for orthodontic interventions as long as you have strong, healthy teeth, early orthodontic intervention is usually the better route. But how do you tell if your child would benefit from early orthodontic intervention?

Your Child Has Extra Teeth

Some children have extra teeth. It’s a relatively common occurrence and happens more in permanent teeth than in baby teeth. There aren’t usually symptoms for having extra teeth, but they can be seen when x-rays are taken. Extra teeth can cause crowding and alignment issues. Getting early orthodontic treatment can mitigate the impact any extra teeth have on the rest of the teeth, preventing the need for more extensive treatment down the road.

Tooth Spacing Is Off

How your child’s teeth are spaced has a direct impact on how easy it is to clean them and how susceptible they are to decay. It’s easier for food to get stuck between the teeth if they are too far apart. If they’re too close together or overlap, they may exert too much pressure on each other and may be tougher to clean well. These problems will only worsen as the teeth shift as your child ages. Early orthodontic intervention can optimize tooth spacing for healthier teeth and a more beautiful smile.

They Have a Thumb-Sucking Habit

While most children grow out of any thumb-sucking habit they may have developed, some children retain the habit long enough that it impacts their oral development. Intense, prolonged thumb sucking can change how the teeth grow, resulting in an open bite. An open bite is when the teeth don’t overlap when the jaws close. Early orthodontic intervention can correct malocclusions brought on by a strong thumb-sucking habit, making it easier for your child to chew their food well, speak clearly, have strong, healthy teeth, and feel confident in their smile.

Ultimately, the best way to tell if your child would benefit from early orthodontic intervention is by sitting them down with an orthodontist for a consultation. By doing so when your child is still young (the recommendation is usually around age 7), corrections can be made more easily and the amount of treatment needed may be less extensive. Remember, the initial consultation is complimentary–you have nothing to lose!

Are you ready to schedule your child’s complimentary consultation? Click here to book your appointment with MI Smile Journey Orthodontics today!