When Do Children Need to See an Orthodontist

Orthodontics become necessary when the teeth are not positioned where they should be. While all children should be assessed by age seven to find out if they need braces, certain issues can make braces especially important. Here is what can indicate that children need an orthodontic exam.

Bite Irregularities

Some bite irregularities are not easily noticeable, but some issues are readily apparent. For example, children who have difficulty chewing their food or enunciating words may have bite irregularities. Jaw pain, cheek biting, and buck teeth are a few other common signs that orthodontic care may be necessary.

Special Factors

If children have certain oral habits, they may be more likely to need braces. Common causes of crooked teeth in children include mouth breathing, pacifier use, and thumb sucking. In these situations, getting early orthodontic treatment may not only resolve any existing bite irregularities but also help prevent future problems with facial development.

Early orthodontics often works more quickly than braces at an older age, and recipients may never need another course of treatment. However, some types of bite irregularities may still require a second set of braces at a later date. Parents can schedule a consultation with our childrens orthodontists in San Pedro to find out whether their kids need braces.