Could Braces Fix Your Child’s Bite?

If your child just got their first teeth, you might be concerned whether their teeth remain straight. Obviously, if they don’t, your instinct will likely be to bring them to the orthodontist. But did you know that braces in Pleasant Grove might also help them with jaw alignment problems? Here’s what you need to know about correcting your child’s bite so that they can eat, speak and smile comfortably as they continue to grow.

Why is Your Child’s Jaw Misaligned?

While a misaligned jaw might be the result of an injury or a TMJ disorder, in other cases it might be a developmental issue. Some children might be born with a naturally crooked jaw, but it can also be the result of using a pacifier or sucking on their thumb for a long time. Misaligned teeth can also cause the jaw to become uneven by preventing it from settling in the correct position.

What are the Consequences of a Misaligned Jaw?

Bite problems such as an overbite or underbite could affect your child’s appearance. This in turn could make them the subject of teasing and increase overall feelings of self-consciousness. Particularly severe cases could make it harder for your child to chew or even breathe. In the long run, the uneven pressure could lead to excessive wear, cracks or breaks in your child’s pearly whites. Needless to say, it’s best to have the condition treated as quickly as possible at a young age.

How Can Braces Help Jaw Alignment?

Your child’s bite can often be corrected with braces. Over time, the treatment will move the teeth and jaws to their proper alignment, which will improve their appearance as well as their health.

Traditional metal braces are made of metal brackets connected by an arch wire held in place by special ties. They work by applying continuous pressure on the teeth to slowly move them in a specific direction. The jawbone will gradually change shape in order to adapt to the pressure. This helps reverse the effects of certain developmental issues that might have caused a misaligned jaw.

When Should My Child Get Braces?

Braces are typically worn between the ages of 8 and 14; at this point, most of your child’s permanent teeth should have grown in, but the head and mouth will still be growing and thus more receptive to change. That said, it’s often recommended to visit an orthodontist in Pleasant Grove when your child is 7 so that potential orthodontic problems can be quickly identified and planned for.

Make an orthodontic appointment today if you think your child might suffer from a misaligned jaw or if you have other concerns. You’ll be glad you did once you see their healthy, straighter smiles!

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dental, our large team of experts devote many hours of education each year to making sure they keep up with rapid advances in dental technology and techniques. If you have a little one with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, we offer traditional metal braces to correct any issues and improve the appearance of their grins. To schedule an appointment, contact our Pleasant Grove practice through our website or by calling (214) 381-3800.