As one of the most common orthodontic treatments worldwide, having braces as a child or teen has almost become a right of passage. Provided by an orthodontic specialist, braces are a great way to improve jaw alignment, adjust a patient’s bite and straighten their teeth to create a picture-perfect smile.
But how do I know if my kids need braces, and how early can we start this process? Looking to shed some light on these questions, here is everything you need to know about the timeline for getting braces and the most common problems they solve.
How early can kids get braces?
While most people associate braces with teenagers, this may not be the most optimal age for your child to begin their orthodontic treatment. Depending on their level of dental development, oral health practices and the extent of adjustment and alignment required, your child may benefit from exploring the different types of braces available to them at an earlier age.
As an essential component for optimal oral healthcare for children, participating in regular dental check-ups from a young age is one of the best ways to learn more about your child’s possible orthodontic needs. During these appointments, your dentist will be able to take X-rays and monitor your child’s dental development — allowing for accurate medical documentation to be created. In ideal situations, it is recommended that children as young as seven years of age be referred to an orthodontic specialist to build a strong therapeutic relationship and begin long-term planning for any orthodontic treatment.
With this extra time, your recommended orthodontic specialist will be able to personalise your child’s treatment plan to target their specific oral needs and the most suitable time.
How to know if your child needs braces
You may be asking yourself, “but how do I know if my kids need braces in the first place?” Commonly thought to be a purely aesthetic treatment option, braces serve to correct a wide variety of important jaw and bite alignment conditions. Depending on your child’s needs, some of the most common issues in oral health for kids that braces can treat include:
- Trouble chewing or biting
- Breathing through their mouth
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbites
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Protruding teeth
- Difficult losing baby teeth
- Teeth grind or clenching
- Jaw pain or clicking when chewing
These are just some examples of how to know if your child needs orthodontic treatment. For more information about your child’s specific dental needs, be sure to consult with your dentist or orthodontic specialist.
Book an appointment with Earlwood Orthodontics specialists today
Learning more about how early kids can get braces is a significant first step in the right direction when it comes to oral healthcare for children. Like every child has a unique personality, their dental care requirements are specific to their individual needs. With this in mind, getting an early start by seeing an orthodontic specialist at a younger age is a great way to stay on top of your kid’s oral health.
At Earlwood Orthodontics, we understand the value of a confident and radiant smile. From traditional metal braces to invisible clear alternatives, we offer a wide variety of the best orthodontic options available on the market today. Committed to helping our patients feel comfortable and relaxed, we strive to provide compassionate patient-centred care at every visit.
To learn more about our orthodontic treatments or to connect with our team, please feel free to contact us by giving us a call on (02) 8426 9000 or emailing us at info@earlwoodorthodontics.com.au. We look forward to hearing from you!
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