Dental

Common Signs Your Child May Need Braces

Does your child need braces? Do you know the signs this orthodontic treatment may be needed? If not, now is the time to find out. The fact is that thousands of kids get braces each month. They offer an effective way to ensure a beautiful, straight smile.

If you aren’t sure if your child needs braces Cordova TN, keep reading. Below are some of the top signs it is time to invest in this treatment.

Issues Biting or Chewing

If your child finds it difficult to bite or chew, it could be a sign of misaligned jaws or teeth. A misalignment could be subtle, and sometimes they can’t be seen when looking at your child’s mouth from the front.

Teeth Grinding

Does your child grind their teeth at night? If so, this may be another sign of misalignment. If the problem goes on untreated, it can cause serious damage to the teeth.

Mouth Breathing

This is something that may impact the look of your child’s face, along with how their teeth grow. If mouth breathing continues, a child may develop narrow jaws and a longer face. This is because the tongue does not rest properly on the roof of the mouth.

Finger Sucking or Another Bad Oral Habit

Some habits, such as thumb-sucking, may cause the front teeth to move in a forward direction. This can cause crowding of the bottom teeth. Most children will halt these types of habits between the ages of two and four; however, if your child continues these habits beyond these ages, it may be time to consider braces.

When it comes to oral health habits and wellness, there are many factors to consider. If you believe your child may need braces, taking them to a dentist or orthodontist for a full evaluation is best. This will help ensure the right treatment is provided.