Braces have long been considered a rite of passage for youngsters. Everyone, including kids and teens, can benefit from having straighter teeth and an aligned bite. Plus, braces can give you a more attractive smile. But before you take your kid to get braces, we want to review some need-to-knows about pediatric orthodontics.
Why Do Kids Need Braces?
Many people assume braces are for vanity or only correct crooked teeth. But braces also promote good oral health and general wellness. Aside from gaps and crooked teeth, braces can help your child if they experience the following:
- Trouble biting or chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Early or late tooth loss
- Poor oral habits, like thumb-sucking
- Crowding, blocked-out, or misplaced teeth
- Narrow, shifted, or protruded jaws
- Difficulty speaking
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Teeth grinding and clenching
- Cheek biting or biting into the soft palate (roof of the mouth)
All of the above, and more, can be rectified with orthodontics.
Does My Kid Need Braces?
The only way to tell if your child needs braces is to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Jerger, your child's pediatric dentist, in Decatur, IL. During the appointment, Dr. Jerger will assess your child's bite, jaw and mouth development, tooth positioning, oral habits, airway, and more.
It's also important to keep in mind that when adult teeth erupt, they often don't grow into their assigned spaces. They can often come in at an angle and move as your child, and their mouth grow. However, if you notice your child's teeth remain crooked, or their bite is still imbalanced, we invite you to call us for guidance.
When Should My Child Get an Orthodontic Evaluation?
While there's no exact age for orthodontics, we agree with the American Academy of Orthodontists (AAO) to take your child to an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Your child's dentist can determine if and when your child can get braces to correct any issues based on their specific needs. However, most kids get braces between ages nine and 14.
January 2023's Smile of the Month Members
Please join us in congratulating January 2023's Smile of the Month members! We are proud of these youngsters for brushing, flossing, and keeping their smiles clean and cavity-free. Well done, everyone, and let's keep working together on maintaining healthy smiles!
Contact Your Pediatric Dentist in Decatur, IL
Dr. Jerger offers braces in Decatur, IL, to improve your child's bite and tooth alignment. Braces can ultimately promote better oral health and contribute to a beautiful smile.