How to Determine if a Child Needs Braces

It's a common concern among parents today and nearly a trend among teenagers—braces for teeth serve several purposes, and yes, aesthetics is one of them. A beautiful smile is essential at any age and shouldn't be taken lightly.

Moreover, dental braces correct any issues with the jaw, ensure proper chewing function, and contribute to overall dental health.

How to Determine if a Child Needs Braces

It's always essential to consult a specialist. At Juaneda Hospitals, we have dental care professionals experienced in treating patients of all ages.

However, there are some clues that may indicate a child needs orthodontic treatment to correct tooth alignment or modify jawbones while they are still developing.

It's crucial for children to visit the dentist at a young age so that any issues can be detected early and addressed promptly.

The Spanish Society of Orthodontics (SEDO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation at the age of 6.

But before that time comes, here are some signs to watch for:

1.  If a child has used a pacifier for an extended period or sucked their thumb, their teeth and palate may have begun to develop malformations. Pediatricians recommend pacifier removal by age two or earlier to prevent tooth displacement or other dental problems.

2.  Observe if the child's jaw is misaligned when they chew, meaning the upper teeth close behind the lower teeth when they shut their mouth.

3.  If there is a significant difference in the size of the upper and lower jawbones, it will be noticeable in the child's profile. From a dental perspective, the upper row of teeth will be placed just in front of the lower teeth, with very little space between them.

4.  When teeth are misaligned, causing them to overlap, it can hinder the chewing process and, more importantly, make cleaning and hygiene difficult.

5.  Sometimes, children have trouble breathing through their nose and tend to breathe through their mouth most of the time. This can lead to palate deepening and narrowing of the upper jaw, often resulting in the need for dental braces.

6.  Children frequently experience falls, and often, they don't put their hands out to break the fall, leading to mouth injuries. In cases of premature loss of baby teeth, it's essential to assess whether a dental spacer is needed to maintain the appropriate space for the permanent tooth's emergence.

7.  Conversely, if late loss of baby teeth is observed, there may be a lack of "replacement," indicating that the permanent tooth hasn't developed.

8.  If a child struggles to speak or has difficulty pronouncing words due to tongue obstruction, it's advisable to consult an orthodontist and schedule an appointment with a speech therapist.

9.  In cases of an open bite, where the upper and lower incisors do not make contact, it should be observed and discussed with the dentist or orthodontist. It could be a habit acquired by the child or stem from skeletal causes.

10.Clicking sounds when opening or closing the jaw, which is not only uncomfortable but also causes headaches and neck pain.

Once some of these symptoms are observed, it's advisable to schedule an appointment with the dental team at Juaneda Hospitals for a proper evaluation.

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