It’s a question most parents ask themselves at some point as their child’s teeth come in: Will he or she need braces? The question is asked for many reasons. First, parents want to give their child every advantage, and studies have shown that adults with straight smiles and healthy teeth tend to be more successful; whether that’s due to a higher self esteem, the perception of others, or a combination of the two, not getting necessary braces could be a hindrance. Secondly, orthodontic work in general can be expensive and is not always covered by dental insurance, so parents often need to plan and save to make the treatment affordable. If you’re wondering whether your child needs braces, an evaluation by an orthodontist will give you the answers you seek. In the meantime, here are some considerations to keep in mind.
Some Spacing Is Normal
When baby teeth come in, there should be some spaces between the teeth. This allows the permanent teeth to come in without getting crowded. Sometimes, parents think that spaces mean braces are needed, but when it’s the baby teeth, spaces are actually a good sign. That being said, very uneven spacing could be cause for concern.
Overbites and Underbites
If your child’s upper or lower jaw juts out farther than the other jaw, that is a common reason for needing braces. When the top jaw sticks out farther, it’s called an overbite; when the lower jaw is more prominent, it’s called an underbite. These types of malocclusions can cause difficulty in eating and, in some cases, in speaking. Usually a general dentist will spot this type of bite and refer you and your child to an orthodontist at an early age.
When to See the Orthodontist
Most orthodontists offer a free evaluation for children who might need braces. It’s recommended that kids see an orthodontist around the age of 7. This is early enough for the specialist to make recommendations when early treatments are needed. By this age, some of the permanent teeth will be in and the orthodontist can begin working on a treatment plan if there is a need for orthodontic work. Most children of this age won’t actually get braces, but palate expanders and other appliances might be necessary at this age. In some cases, early treatment can make it less likely that your child will need braces in the future.
If you are concerned that your child might need braces, talk to your dentist about whether it’s the right time for a referral to an orthodontist.
