Overlapping teeth, an uneven bite, and difficulty chewing are just a few common signs that your child may benefit from orthodontic treatment. But what happens if your child doesn’t get braces? Will their teeth eventually straighten out? Will their bite properly align with enough time?
Questions like these are completely natural and quite common. To learn the risks of not starting orthodontic treatment when your child needs it, read on!
#1. Increased Risk of Oral Health Concerns, like Cavities
All too often, braces are looked at simply as an aesthetic treatment. In reality, they benefit the overall health of your smile as well. Misalignment issues, like overlapping or gapped teeth, create unique crevices for food particles and plaque to get trapped in. As a result, your child has to be extremely diligent about their oral hygiene regimen to have a fighting chance at preventing tooth decay. The good news is that braces can properly align their teeth, making their brushing and flossing routine more seamless and effective.
#2. Increased Risk of Bite Problems
Braces don’t just straighten teeth; they address bite problems as well! If left untreated, overbites, underbites, and the like can result in wear and tear on your child’s teeth. Furthermore, if their upper and lower teeth don’t meet evenly, then they likely aren’t breaking down their food properly, which can result in indigestion. So, it’s important not to put off orthodontic treatment for the sake of their bite and their overall health.
#3. Increased Risk of Poor Speaking Patterns
To form words, your child’s tongue makes a series of distinct movements against the back of their teeth. Therefore, if their teeth are crowded or spaced-out, their misalignment will likely negatively impact their speaking patterns. This can hinder their self-esteem and make it more difficult for them to effectively communicate with their friends, teachers, and, of course, family. Luckily, braces can effectively address any present orthodontic problems, removing this concern entirely.
#4. Increased Risk of Lower Self-Confidence
Misaligned teeth and an uneven bite are two issues that can take a serious toll on your child’s self-confidence. After all, one of the first features people notice is smiles! Fortunately, orthodontic treatment can guide your child’s teeth into their proper positions, providing them with a gorgeous smile in the process. Plus, there are several more discreet solutions available today, including Invisalign. So, ask their orthodontist if metal-free braces are an option during their personal consultation.
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big deal for your child, so it’s important to consider the pros heavily. Of course, if you have a question about the specifics beforehand, don’t hesitate to ask – your child’s orthodontist is there to help!
About the Practice
With a pediatric dentist and orthodontist at Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, our team is here to help your child’s smile thrive throughout the years, including when it comes time for them to get braces! If you are unsure of whether or not orthodontic treatment is right for your little one, don’t worry – we’d be more than happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you have. To learn more about braces for children and teens, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (978) 612-6222.