Braces for Kids: When is It Time?

If your child has misaligned teeth, he or she could gain many benefits from seeing an orthodontist and getting dental braces. Although there is no standard age to start treatment, you should have your child evaluated by a dentist within six months of his or her first primary tooth eruption. Some orthodontic problems are best treated as soon as possible. Others can wait. Your pediatric dentist will be able to detect early abnormalities and refer your child to an orthodontist for a full evaluation when it’s appropriate.

Reasons your Child Might Benefit from Braces for Kids
Dental braces can solve many minor and major problems including the following:

• Untimely or irregular loss of primary teeth
• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Missing teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Blocked-out teeth
• Frequent cheek bites
• Problems with temporomandibular joints
• Overbite or under-bite
• Jaws or teeth that are out of proportion to facial structure

Braces for Kids: What Causes the Need for Them?
The majority of orthodontic problems are genetic, but some develop from external problems such as thumb sucking, mouth breathing, tooth decay, injuries, or inadequate nutrition. In many cases, there is simply not enough room inside a child’s mouth to accommodate developing teeth.

When Should I Have my Child Evaluated for Dental Braces?
Some children should be evaluated for orthodontic braces at age five or six, while others can wait until permanent teeth start to come in. Experts often recommend scheduling an evaluation before age seven.

What is the Best Age to Get Orthodontist Braces?
The most appropriate age for treatment by an orthodontist varies from patient to patient. An orthodontist typically treats children between the ages of 8 and 14. However, some children may need treatment while their baby teeth are still intact.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Miami, call Miami Center for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry today at (305) 306-9250 or make an appointment.