How do I know if my child needs braces?

[Donna]

I’m working with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and thought you and other parents in your group would be interested in some information about braces, orthodontists, and preventive oral care.

A lot of parents want to know if and when their child might need braces – here are some early signs that may indicate the need to see an orthodontist:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty in chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Speech difficulties
• Crowded, misplaced or blocked out teeth
• Jaws that shift or make sounds
• Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth
• Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face

If these are signs that your child might have, definitely see an orthodontist (who, btw have 2-3 years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth).

If anyone or their children has had braces, please post a comment and share your experiences! Also, feel free to ask questions, let's get this discussion going!

Thanks!

-Donna
[e-mail]

[Donna]

I just wanted to follow up with some more information, in response to a lot of questions I’ve had Moms ask me – “when should my child seen an orthodontist?” The AAO recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than age 7 to check on subtle problems with teeth and jaw growth.

I hope this is helpful! :)

I’ve heard a lot of varying feedback to when parents take their children to visit an orthodontist for the 1st time – at what age did you take your kids?

[Olympia Scott]

This is a great post! Many parents are unaware of how and when to go about getting orthodontic care for their children. Personally I had an overbite as a child due to a thumb-sucking habit that I couldn't break. When I was 9, my parents took me to the orthodontist to resolve both problems. The orthodontist gave me a permanent retainer that went across the roof of my mouth to prevent further thumb-sucking. This retainer also served as the anchor for my head-gear that would pull my upper teeth back, reducing my overbite.

I ended up having several different retainers and appliances over a few years, but it was well worth it, because I'm proud of my smile now.

My daughter has the same issue, minus the thumb-sucking, but we have also started her orthodontic treatment.

[Donna]

Hi Olympia!

I'm glad you think this information is helpful, thanks for letting me know! It’s good to hear that your daughter has already started her orthodontic treatment. What are some braces-friendly foods that you prepare for your daughter?

Donna

[Olympia Scott]

So far, she's only had retainers, so I haven't had to deal with that issue yet.

[Donna]

Whoops - I thought you said she had braces already! :)

[Gail Cavanaugh]

If a child needs braces, how long will they be wearing them? Are there any risks in not treating a child who needs braces?